SANTA CRUZ, Calif. – A California state law that allows people to make certain foods at home and then sell them for commercial use went into effect this year.
Rachel Smith, supervisor for Nuts Kreations in Santa Cruz, said the business didn't start at the store. She said the idea to sell locally-grown, organic nuts and fruit started at home.
"Mina, the owner, made a bunch of fruit and nut mixes for her family and friends and it kind of grew out of that idea. Now we are a full-fledge certified green business," she said.
That's why Smith said she supports the new law that makes Cottage Food Operations legal in California.
CFOs are enterprises at a private home where low-risk food products are prepared or packaged for sale, like baked goods, candy, and dried food with restricts.
"A lot of products these days are full of chemicals and preservatives that aren't necessarily going to be in home-baked and home-produced goods, and so that's something we support," Smith said.
Business owners in downtown Santa Cruz said the new law could open up the door to more businesses in the area, but some people said they're concerned about where they're food is coming from and how it's made.
"This new cottage ordinance allows the city to come in and inspect and permit these homemakers, so I rely on the city to make sure everything is safe," said Karl Heiman, owner of Caffe Pergolesi.
He said he meets people all of the time who want to sell food that's homemade, but can't afford the overhead of a commercial kitchen, so the new law could pave the way.
"Number one, it will spur business. More people will be able to bake and sell. The businesses that they sell to will be able to sell more and, number three, it's all local, so all these products will be unique," Heiman said.
Anyone who wants to jump on board has to complete a food processor course by the California Department of Public Health within three months of being registered, or permitted.
All food products must be properly labeled in compliance with federal regulations.
For Frequently Asked Questions on the California Homemade Food Act, visit: http://cchealth.org/eh/retail-food/pdf/AB-1616-FAQ.pdf
