Cottage Food Laws in Hidalgo County in Texas

Can You Sell Food and Beverage out of Your Home in Hidalgo County in Texas?

Yes, you can sell food and beverage out of your home in Hidalgo County in Texas. Home-based food businesses must obtain a permit from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). The permit requires a plan review, training, and inspection of your facility prior to issuance. For more information, please visit https://www.dshs.texas.gov/food-establishment-regulation/home-food-businesses/.

What is the Cottage Food Law in Hidalgo County in Texas?

The Cottage Food Law in Hidalgo County, Texas allows home-based food businesses to sell certain types of low-risk foods without needing a license from the Texas Department of State Health Services. Cottage Food Producers must register with the county and complete food safety training. Cottage Food Producers may only sell certain types of foods, such as baked goods, candy, jams, jellies, dry mixes, popcorn, cereals, nuts, fruit butters, honey, and flavored vinegars. All items must be labeled with the producer’s name and address, and any warning statements required by law.

What is Required on a Cottage Food Label in Hidalgo County in Texas?

In Hidalgo County, Texas, a cottage food label must include the following information:

1. The name of the product.
2. Ingredients in descending order of predominance by weight.
3. Manufacturer’s name, address, and telephone number.
4. Weight or volume of the contents.
5. A statement “Made in a Home Kitchen” or “Made in a Cottage Food Operation”
6. Allergen labeling as required by state law
7. All nutritional facts required by law
8. A Use-by date

Are Cottage Foods Taxable in Hidalgo County in Texas?

Yes, cottage foods in Hidalgo County, Texas are taxable. Sales tax must be collected on all sales of food products, including cottage foods, and reported to the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.

Do You Need to Establish a Business Entity to Sell Cottage Foods in Hidalgo County in Texas?

Yes, you need to establish a business entity to sell cottage foods in Hidalgo County in Texas. The Texas Cottage Food Law requires all cottage food businesses to register with the Department of State Health Services. In addition, businesses must also comply with all applicable Hidalgo County local ordinances and regulations.

What Permits do You Need to Sell Food out of Your Home in Hidalgo County in Texas?

In order to sell food out of your home in Hidalgo County in Texas, you will need to obtain a Food Establishment Permit from the Texas Department of State Health Services. This permit is required for any person or entity that manufactures, processes, packs, transports, holds, or sells food that is intended for human consumption. Additionally, you may need to obtain a certificate of occupancy from Hidalgo County, depending on the type of facility you are operating. Finally, you may need to secure other local permits and licenses depending on the specific nature of your business.

Does a Cottage Food Business Need a Food Handlers License in Hidalgo County in Texas?

Yes, a cottage food business in Hidalgo County, Texas needs a food handlers license. Additionally, the business must obtain a permit from the Hidalgo County Health Department.

How Much does it Cost to Obtain a Food Safety License or Certification in Hidalgo County in Texas?

The exact cost of obtaining a food safety license or certification in Hidalgo County, Texas, will depend on the type of license or certification being sought. Depending on the type of license or certification, fees range from $10 to $100 per application.

Who Regulates Food Safety in Hidalgo County in Texas?

The Texas Department of State Health Services is responsible for regulating food safety in Hidalgo County in Texas.

How Long Does a Food Handlers License Last in Hidalgo County in Texas?

Food handlers in Hidalgo County, Texas must obtain a food handler’s card that is valid for two years from the date of issuance.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Truck in Hidalgo County in Texas?

In order to operate a food truck in Hidalgo County, Texas, you will need to obtain a Mobile Food Unit permit from the Hidalgo County Health Department. This permit will require you to pass a health inspection of your food truck and its equipment, and ensure that you are following all local and state regulations related to preparing and selling food. Additionally, you may need to obtain a Business License from Hidalgo County, as well as any other permits related to parking in designated areas.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Booth in Hidalgo County in Texas?

To operate a food booth in Hidalgo County, Texas, you will need a Food Establishment Permit from the Hidalgo County Health Department. You will also need a Certificate of Occupancy from the Building Department and an Event Permit from the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office. Depending on the type of food you will be serving, you may also need to obtain additional licenses or permits from the Texas Department of State Health Services.

What Permits do You Need for a Cottage Food Business in Hidalgo County in Texas?

In order to legally operate a cottage food business in Hidalgo County, Texas, you will need to obtain a Food Establishment Permit from the Hidalgo County Health and Human Services Department. You must also meet the state-mandated requirements for cottage food businesses. These include having a valid food handler’s card, registering your business with the county, submitting a permit application, and meeting all applicable health and safety regulations. Additionally, a cottage food business in Hidalgo County must also obtain a Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit from the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.

What are the Penalties for Selling Food without a Permit in Hidalgo County in Texas?

The sale of food without a permit in Hidalgo County, Texas, is considered a Class C misdemeanor. Penalties for this type of offense may include a fine of up to $500, jail time of up to 30 days, and/or community service.