Home-based food businesses can be a hobby for extra income or the start of something much larger. Approval and notification is required to operate a home-based food business. 

Handling food for sale at an address which is also a domestic premises means there are special food safety issues to consider.

Preparing or storing food at home for later sale is considered a food business. Requirements to be met are the same as for other retail food businesses.

Examples of home-based food businesses include:

• Preparing food for sale at markets or school canteens in a domestic kitchen
• Bed and breakfast accommodation
• Home-based child care for a fee involving provision of food
• Home-based catering businesses.

It is the responsibility of each food business to understand relevant food safety requirements and comply with them. Some food businesses engage consultants for expert food safety advice and to help them meet compliance obligations.

Learn more about home-based and mixed businesses.