Cottage Food Laws in Shelby County in Tennessee

Can You Sell Food and Beverage out of Your Home in Shelby County in Tennessee?

No, it is not legal to sell food and beverages from your home in Shelby County, Tennessee. It is illegal to operate a food business from a residence without first obtaining a food service permit from the local health department.

What is the Cottage Food Law in Shelby County in Tennessee?

The Cottage Food Law in Shelby County, Tennessee, allows individuals to make and sell certain foods from their home or cottage without having to obtain a food processing license. This law allows residents to make and sell non-potentially hazardous foods, such as jams, jellies, baked goods, and dry mixes. These products must be labeled with specific information in order to be sold.

What is Required on a Cottage Food Label in Shelby County in Tennessee?

In Shelby County, Tennessee, all cottage food products must be labeled with the following information:

1. The product name
2. The ingredients of the food product listed in descending order of predominance by weight
3. Any known food allergens contained in the product
4. A “best by” or “use by” date
5. The name and physical address of the cottage food business
6. A statement that the food was produced in a home kitchen that is not subject to routine state or local inspection
7. Allergen statement: “This product may contain one or more of the following: eggs, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, milk, and/or soy”
8. Weight or volume of contents

Are Cottage Foods Taxable in Shelby County in Tennessee?

Yes, according to the Tennessee Department of Revenue, cottage foods are taxable in Shelby County. The department requires that cottage food businesses register with the state as a Seller of Tangible Personal Property and must collect and remit sales tax on sales of cottage foods.

Do You Need to Establish a Business Entity to Sell Cottage Foods in Shelby County in Tennessee?

Yes, it is recommended that you establish a business entity to sell cottage foods in Shelby County, Tennessee. Each state has different regulations for cottage food sales and in Tennessee, a business entity must be established to sell cottage foods. This can include setting up a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation. It is also important to obtain proper licensing and permits for the business entity.

What Permits do You Need to Sell Food out of Your Home in Shelby County in Tennessee?

In order to sell food from a home in Shelby County, Tennessee, individuals must obtain a Business License from the Shelby County Clerk’s Office as well as a Retail Food Establishment Permit from the Shelby County Health Department. The Retail Food Establishment Permit is issued upon successful completion of an application, submission of a plan review fee, and approval of a plan review by the health department. The business license may also require additional documentation such as proof of insurance.

Does a Cottage Food Business Need a Food Handlers License in Shelby County in Tennessee?

No, a cottage food business does not need a food handlers license in Shelby County, Tennessee. However, cottage food businesses must meet certain requirements to be allowed to sell their products. These requirements include having a valid health inspection certificate from a registered minister of health and inspection officer and registering their business with the Shelby County Health Department. Additionally, they must label their products with information about the product, such as ingredients and date of manufacture.

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

The cost to obtain a food safety license or certification in Shelby County, Tennessee depends on the type of license or certification that you are obtaining. Generally, food safety certification courses cost between $100 – $300. Additionally, there may be other fees associated with the licensing process, such as exam fees or application fees, and these fees vary depending on the type of license or certification that you are obtaining. For more information about the type of license or certification that you are interested in obtaining and the associated costs, please contact the Shelby County Health Department.

Who Regulates Food Safety in Shelby County in Tennessee?

Food safety in Shelby County in Tennessee is regulated by the Shelby County Health Department.

How Long Does a Food Handlers License Last in Shelby County in Tennessee?

The Shelby County Health Department issues Food Handler Cards that are valid for two years from the date of issue.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Truck in Shelby County in Tennessee?

The permits and licenses you need to operate a food truck in Shelby County, Tennessee, include:

1. A valid business license from the Shelby County Clerk
2. A valid health permit from the Shelby County Health Department
3. A valid Shelby County Food Service Establishment Permit
4. A valid Motor Vehicle Permit from the Tennessee Department of Revenue
5. An authorization letter from the Shelby County Commission
6. A valid Tennessee Sales Tax Certificate from the Tennessee Department of Revenue
7. A valid Tennessee Vehicle Title and Registration from the Tennessee Department of Safety
8. Proof of liability insurance with at least $1,000,000 coverage

What Permits do You Need for a Food Booth in Shelby County in Tennessee?

In order to operate a food booth in Shelby County, Tennessee, you will need to obtain a food service permit from the Shelby County health department. This permit is required for any business that prepares or serves perishable food, including those that cater, sell food from a restaurant, and/or operate a food booth. The health department may also require additional permits, depending on the type of food served and the size of the booth. For more information, contact the Shelby County health department.

What Permits do You Need for a Cottage Food Business in Shelby County in Tennessee?

In Shelby County, Tennessee, you will need a Food Service Permit from the Shelby County Department of Health in order to operate a cottage food business. You must submit an application, pass a health inspection, obtain approval from the Tennessee Commissioner of Agriculture, and have a valid food service permit before you can begin business operations.

What are the Penalties for Selling Food without a Permit in Shelby County in Tennessee?

In Shelby County, Tennessee, it is illegal to sell food without a permit. If an individual is found to be in violation, they could face fines of up to $500 and/or up to six months in jail. Additionally, the individual’s business may be closed down, and further violations could result in a license revocation.