Can I produce pickled or acidified foods?
No. Pickled and acidified foods pose botulism risks if the pH and other critical control points are not controlled during processing. In retail, acidification is considered a special process and is subject to additional regulatory requirements.
Can I sell fermented food?
No. Fermented foods consist of foods that require refrigeration upon processing or are subject to further regulatory requirements.
Is it necessary to include allergen labeling on my HBV product?
While allergen labeling is not required, it is highly encouraged. The nine food allergens recognized in the U.S. are milk, eggs, wheat, soy, tree nuts, sesame, peanuts, fish, and shellfish.
May I sell freezer corn?
No. Freezer corn is considered a cooked plant food which requires temperature control after blanching. Exception: unblanched freezer corn.
Can I make or use supplements in my home-based vendor products?
No. Dietary supplements are beyond the scope of the HBV rule.
Can I sell homemade vanilla extract?
No. Homemade vanilla extract production is beyond the scope of the HBV rule due to its alcohol content.
Can I make barbecue or hot sauce from scratch?
No. Only commercially prepared, shelf-stable sauces can be mixed to make barbecue/hot sauces.
Can I serve free samples of my home-based food products?
It depends on the sanitation requirements from the local health department. Please reach out to the local health department in which you wish to provide samples for further information.
The farmers market where I want to sell my products says I need a food license even though I am a home-based vendor. Can the market require a license?
No. HBVs do not require food permitting by law; however, the farmers market manager may request a copy of the food handler’s certificate and support documentation (e.g., liability insurance).
Do I have to use my home address on my product labels? Can I use a PO Box?
Under HBV law IC 16-42-5.3-5(a)(1) the HBV is required to put their name and primary residence address on the product. PO Box addresses do not meet the requirement.