AMARILLO, Texas — A set of new laws that came into effect on September 1 is bringing exciting changes for vendors selling homemade food. These updates aim to help small businesses grow and reach more customers.
Vendors like Sheri Brown, who operates Small Town Girl Baking at the Golden Spread Farmers Market, are especially thrilled. “These new laws make it easier for new people to enter the cottage food industry,” she shared.
Initially, Brown found the old laws intimidating. “The health inspector would come to the market, asking for our food handler’s license and checking labels. It felt overwhelming,” she explained.
The most notable change allows vendors to triple their annual gross sales while still adhering to cottage food laws. This has made Brown rethink her future. “I realized that with these new limits, a full-time baking career might actually be possible after I retire,” she said. She’s even brainstorming ideas like starting a food truck since baking at home is now more feasible.
In the U.S., the cottage food industry has seen significant growth. According to a 2022 report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, sales from homemade food increased by about 25% over the past three years, highlighting a shift toward supporting local entrepreneurs.
As small businesses gain traction, online platforms and social media are buzzing with enthusiasm, with many vendors sharing their stories and connecting with customers on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. This trend shows how vital community support is for small-scale food sellers.
For anyone interested in the rules and opportunities within cottage food laws, the National Conference of State Legislatures offers in-depth insights and resources.
These new changes can empower many vendors to follow their dreams, creating a vibrant marketplace for homemade goods and fostering a sense of community.
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Homemade food,Texas,Vendors,Laws,Cottage food industry,Sales,Baking,Farmers market
