Making and selling your own food can be a great way into catering. Our expert gives advice on making a start...
The issue
I'd love to get into catering and I'm thinking of starting by selling preserves, jams and mayonnaise. I have a lot of cooking experience and enjoy it very much.
I've been advised to go into catering from home, but I don't want to go in headfirst without finding out the legalities, such as health and safety laws. How can I get more information on these issues?
What should I do?
Expert answer
Alison Clarke, human resources director of Whitbread Restaurants, replies:
There are recognised food safety hazards associated with the production of preserves, jams and mayonnaise, and it is critical that these are fully understood and controlled before offering products to the general public.
Take action
To get more information:
- Make contact with your local authority's Environmental Health and Trading Standards departments. They will be able to advise you on the general and specific legal requirements associated with producing food at home from a food safety, food hygiene and trading standards perspective ? labelling, weights and measures etc.
- Browse the Internet for a wealth of information and advice for small businesses. Try www.foodstandards.gov.uk and www.tradingstandards.gov.uk