Selling Food & Beverage Online: Regulations You Need to Know

Selling food online is one of the fastest-growing ecommerce categories. But it comes with unique regulatory requirements.

The Basics: Who Regulates What

FDA - Oversees most packaged foods sold interstate
State Departments of Agriculture - Regulate local and cottage food operations
USDA - Meat, poultry, and egg products
TTB - Alcohol (a whole different beast)

Cottage Food Laws: Starting Small

Most states have cottage food laws allowing home-based food production for direct sales. Typical restrictions include sales caps, limited product types, and often limited to in-state direct sales.

Scaling Up: Commercial Kitchen Requirements

To sell nationwide or through retailers, you'll typically need a licensed commercial kitchen, food handler certifications, proper labeling, and a food safety plan.

Labeling Requirements

FDA requires product name, net weight, ingredient list, allergen declarations, manufacturer info, and nutrition facts panel.

Shipping Considerations

Food shipping adds complexity: temperature control for perishables, packaging that maintains freshness, carrier restrictions, and seasonal limitations.

Getting Started Safely

1. Research your state's cottage food laws
2. Start with low-risk products
3. Get proper insurance
4. Document everything
5. Scale into commercial production as you grow