Fillable Starting your Contra Costa County Cottage Food Operation

Fill Online, Printable, Fillable, Blank Starting your Contra Costa County Cottage Food Operation Form

Use Fill to complete blank online OTHERS pdf forms for free. Once completed you can sign your fillable form or send for signing. All forms are printable and downloadable.

Starting your Contra Costa County Cottage Food Operation

On average this form takes 32 minutes to complete

The Starting your Contra Costa County Cottage Food Operation form is 25 pages long and contains:

  • 4 signatures
  • 76 check-boxes
  • 77 other fields

Country of origin: OTHERS
File type: PDF

BROWSE OTHERS FORMS

Related forms
Fill has a huge library of thousands of forms all set up to be filled in easily and signed.
Fill in your chosen form
Sign the form using our drawing tool
Send to someone else to fill in and sign.
find another form
 
Starting your Contra Costa County Cottage Food Operation (CFO)
COTTAGE FOOD OPERATION FEES BELOW INCLUDE $45.00 APPLICATION FEE WHICH IS NON-REFUNDABLE
Please allow at least 15 working days from the time of submittal of your completed application packet for review.
Approval is required from Environmental Health prior to starting your CFO business.
See listing of Approved Cottage Foods attached.
It is highly recommended you have a solid business plan in place prior to submitting for permits from various agencies. Please
consider contacting the Contra Costa Small Business Development Center
925-602-6806 or www.contracostasbdc.org for guidance.
Step 1 . . .
Obtain and complete ALL required items below needed for application submittal to Contra Costa Environmental Health:
Fees paid in full at the time of submission*
Photocopy of your current CA Driver’s License (same address as CFO documents or include copy of DMV Change of Address Request)
Copy of received & date stamped City/County Planning /Zoning Department CFO Home Occupation Application
EH Consumer Protection Services Application – 1 page
EH California Homemade Food Act AB1616 (Gatto) Registration/Permitting Form – 5 pages
EH Cottage Food Operations Self Certification Checklist (CFOs – Class A/B) – 2 pages
Copy of current Food Handler Course Certification (on line courses are available) - Completed within 3 months.
http://www.cdph.ca.gov/programs/Documents/fdbCFOtrain.pdf. Copy of certification may be faxed to CCEH
925-608-5502 or emailed to CFO@cchealth.org and be sure to state the name of your CFO.
Copies of all product labels using required California Department of Public Health format/wording (if stating the use of organic
ingredients, must attach a copy of the USDA certification for each item (see Sample Label below). Numbered listing of all products
submitted, if over 3 items. *An additional fee of $199.00 per hour will be charged after the 3
rd
hour of review.
Continued . . .
MADE IN A HOME KITCHEN
Class A Registration or Class B Permit #12345
Issued in: Contra Costa County
Chocolate Chip Cookies With Walnuts
Sally Baker
123 Cottage Food Lane
Yourtown, CA 90000
Ingredients: Enriched flour (wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiam
ine,
mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid), butter (milk, salt) chocolate chips
(sugar, chocolate liquor, cocoa butter, butterfat (milk)), walnuts, sugar, eggs,
salt, artificial vanilla extract, baking soda.
Contains: Wheat, eggs, milk, soy, walnuts
Net Wt. 3 oz. (85.049g
Fees:
All fees are subject to change without notice.
Renewal payments received after February 28 will have $150.00 late fee added.
New Class A – Direct Sales Packet Review $498.00
Includes review, application fee ($45.00 non-refundable), 1st year registration
* Subsequent
years with no changes $109.00 – due annually Mar 1 – Feb 28
New Class B – Indirect/Direct Sales Packet Review $796.00
Includes review, application fee ($45.00 non-refundable), 1st year registration, travel,inspection
* Subsequent years with no changes $348.00 – due annually Mar 1 – Feb 28
* Contra Costa Environmental Health must be notified if there are any changes to the
labels, place of residence or products being made, a packet review charge will apply.
California De
partment of Public Health information and updates:
For approved food listing and program updates regarding the new California CFO AB1616 Gatto bill, please visit the
California Department of Public Health: http://www.cdph.ca.gov/programs/Pages/fdbCottageFood.aspx
Step 2 . . .
After submittal:
When completed application and payment are received, all applications are date stamped, reviewed by the Inspector and CFO
Supervisor. You will be contacted via e-mail, and/or phone to be advised of any changes, or additional documentation and approval
or denial. It is your responsibility to return calls and e-mails in a timely manner for a turnaround time of approximately 15 working
days. Keep in mind there are other applications on review ahead of yours.
Step 3 . . .
After final approval:
You will be sent your registration / permit number to be printed on all labels and the Class A Registration or Class B Permit.
Do not make,
prepare or sell food, including business transactions, prior to receiving your final Environmental Health approval.
If you are interested in trying to sell your products at Farmer’s Markets or Temporary Food Events, you must contact the Market Manager
or Temporary Food Event Coordinator to be accepted and approved by them, pay all appropriate fees and be added to their vendor
list. You must show proof of Contra Costa Environmental Health CFO registration/permit.
Should you have additional questions after reviewing the websites above, feel free to c
all your lead inspector: Matt Villaber
or program clerk, Diana Abbott 925-608-5500. Email address: CFO@cchealth.org
Continued . . .
Approved Cottage Foods
Cottage food operations are allowed to produce certain non-potentially hazardous foods. These are foods that do not support the rapid growth of
bacteria that would make people sick when held outside of refrigeration temperatures. The list of approved cottage food categories and their ethnic
variations, which cottage food operations are allowed to produce, are listed below. The list will be maintained and updated by the California
Department of Public Health (CDPH) on its Internet website as necessary.
CDPH may add to or delete food products from the approved products list. Notice of any change, reason for the change, the authority for the change,
and the nature of the change to the approved food products list will be posted on the CDPH website and shall be become effective thirty (30) days
after the notice is posted. http://www.cdph.ca.gov/programs/Pages/fdbCottageFood.aspx
Approved Food Products List (July 1, 2020):
(1) Baked goods, without cream, custard, or meat fillings, such as breads, biscuits, churros, cookies, pastries, and tortillas.
(2) Candy, such as brittle and toffee.
(3) Chocolate-covered nonperishable foods, such as nuts and dried fruits.
(4) Dried fruit.
(5) Dried pasta.
(6) Dry baking mixes.
(7) Fruit pies, fruit empanadas
, and fruit tamales.
(8) Granola, cereals, and trail mixes.
(9) Herb blends and dried mole paste.
(10) Honey and sweet sorghum syrup.
(11) Jams, jellies, preserves, and fruit butter that comply with the standard described in
Part 150 of Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations. * See Below
(12) Nut mixes and nut butters.
(13) Popcorn.
(14) Vinegar and mustard.
(15) Roasted coffee and dried tea.
(16) Waffle cones and pizelles.
(17) Cotton candy.
(18) Candied apples.
(19) Confections such as salted caramel,
fudge, marshmallow bars, chocolate covered marshmallow, nuts, and hard candy, or any combination thereof.
(20) Buttercream frosting, buttercream icing, buttercream fondant, and gum paste that do not contain eggs, cream, or cream cheese.
(21) Dried or Dehydrated vegetables.
(22) Dried vegetarian-based soup mixes.
(23) Vegetable and potato chips.
(24) Ground chocolate.
(25) Seasoning salt.
(26) Flat icing.
(27) Marshmallows that do not contain eggs.
(28) Popcorn balls.
(29) Dried grain mixes.
(30) Fried or baked donuts and waffles.
(31) Dried hot chocolate (dried powdered mixes or molded hardened cocoa pieces).
(32) Fruit infused vinegar (containing only high-acid fruits such as apple, crabapple, nectarine, peach, plum, quince, blackberry, blueberry, cherry,
cranberry, grape, huckleberry, gooseberry, loganberry, pomegranate, pineapple, raspberry, strawberry, tomatillo, youngberry, grapefruit, kumquat,
lemon, lime, orange).
(33) Dried fruit powders.
(34) Dried spiced sugars.
(35) Dessert sprinkles (edible) such as sanding and crystal sugars, non-pareils, confetti, sequins, dragees, sugar-shapes, sugar-strands (jimmies), comfits,
mini-chocolates, and pralines.
*Jams, jellies, preserves, and
fruit butter: Cottage food operations which produce jams, jellies, preserves, and other related products
must be sure that their products meet the legal established standards of identity requirements for those products as set forth in
21 CFR Part 150. The purpose of the regulation is to maintain the integrity of the food product to ensure consumers consistently get
what they expect. The product name and ingredients listed on the label must be factual and comply with the legal definitions and standards
of identity or the product may be considered misbranded. Products made with other ingredients that are not defined in 21 CFR 150 cannot
be produced by cottage food operations. Addition of other ingredients or alteration of ingredient profiles changes the chemistry of the food,
which can allow the growth of various bacteria and toxins under the right conditions. For example, addition of peppers (i.e. jalapeno pepper)
to make pepper jelly is not supported by 21 CFR 150 and the addition of this low acid ingredient could cause the formation of botulism toxin
in the product if the proper controls are not used.
Revised 7.1.2020
D
D
D
D
CONTRA COSTA
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH DIVISION
2120 DIAMOND BOULEVARD, SUITE 100
CONCORD, CA 94520
(925) 608-5500 (925) 608-5502 FAX
www.cchealth.org/eh
CONSUMER PROTECTION SERVICES APPLICATION
APPLICATION FEE IS NON-REFUNDABLE (SERVICE FEES ARE ADDITIONAL REFER TO FEE SCHEDULE)
OWNER NAME (As it appears on Driver’s License or Federal Tax I.D.):
OWNERS DRIVER’S LICENSE #:
LIST ADDITIONAL PARTNERS:
OWNER ADDRESS:
CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE:
PHONE #:
OWNER MAILING ADDRESS (If different from above):
EMAIL ADDRESS:
IN CARE OF: (Billing office or person in charge):
CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE:
COTTAGE FOOD OPERATION NAME / DBA:
COTTAGE FOOD OPERATION PHONE #:
COTTAGE FOOD OPERATION ADDRESS:
CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE:
COTTAGE FOOD OPERATION TYPE:
(Please Check Box)
Class A
Class B
OTHER SERVICES REQUESTED:
Site Evaluation Consultation
Add Partner: Name:
Drop Partner: Name:
Change Address to: ___________________________________________
Phone #:
Phone #:
The undersigned hereby applies for a Permit to Operate and agrees to operate in accordance with all applicable state and local regulations, laws, and such inspection
procedures needed to ensure compliance. Payment of the required fee and late penalties, if any, to secure a valid permit is required before commencing or continuing
operations. Failure to do so may result in a misdemeanor citation, infractions, permit suspension/revocation proceedings, and/or closure. Notify Contra Costa
Environmental Health of any changes in the type of business activity, name, billing address, or ownership by calling the number above.
PERMITS ARE NOT TRANSFERABLE.
APPLICANT NAME: (Please print)
Signature of Applicant: Date:
FOR OFFICE USE ONLY
FA #:
PR #
P/E:
REHS:
SUPERVISOR:
VC
RECEIVED BY:
DATE RECEIVED:
AMOUNT DUE:
$
AMOUNT PAID:
$
CHECK #:
CASH
CREDIT CARD: MC VISA
RECEIPT #:
XR
WHITE – ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
MV
click to sign
signature
click to edit
Rev. 11/20
Page 1 of 5
Environmental Health Division
2120 Diamond Boulevard, Suite 100, Concord, CA 94520
(925) 608-5500 FAX (925) 608-5502 (www.cchealth.org/eh)
$45.00 APPLICATION FEE (Included in Registration/Permit Fee) IS NON-REFUNDABLE
(SERVICE FEES ARE ADDITIONAL. REFER TO FEE SCHEDULE.)
CALIFORNIA HOMEMADE FOOD ACT AB 1616 (GATTO)
REGISTRATION / PERMITTING FORM
CFO Busines
s Name: Date:
CFO Physical Address: CFO City: CFO ZIP:
Owner Name: Owner Phone: Owner Cell:
Mailing Address (if different): Mailing City: Mailing ZIP:
Email Address:
Website:
1. Categories:
2. Prohibited Items: Initial if you agree to abide by the following: _
Foods containing cream, custard, or meat fillings are potentially hazardous and are NOT
ALLOWED. Only foods that are defined as “non-potentially hazardous” are approved for
preparation by a Cottage Food Operation (CFO). These are food items that do not require
refrigeration to keep them safe from bacterial growth that could be a cause of food-borne illness.
*Please note: Cannabis-infused edibles are not an approved Cottage Food product.
3. “Class A/B” Self Certification Checklist:
Checklist completed
“Class A” (Direct Sales Only)
“Class B” ( Direct & Indirect Sales)
Rev. 11/20
Page 2 of 5
4. Products:
Please check ALL of the items you will be preparing and/or selling. Approved Food Products List (July 1, 2020):
(1) Baked goods, without cream, custard, or meat fillings, such as breads, biscuits, churros, cookies, pastries, and tortillas.
(2) Candy, such as brittle and toffee.
(3) Chocolate-covered nonperishable foods, such as nuts and dried fruits.
(4) Dried fruit.
(5) Dried pasta.
(6) Dry baking mixes.
(7) Fruit pies, fruit empanadas, and fruit tamales.
(8) Granola, cereals, and trail mixes.
(9) Herb blends and dried mole paste.
(10) Honey and sweet sorghum syrup.
(11) Jams, jellies, preserves, and fruit butter that comply with the standard described in Part 150 of Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations. * See Below
(12) Nut mixes and nut butters.
(13) Popcorn.
(14) Vinegar and mustard.
(15) Roasted coffee and dried tea.
(16) Waffle cones and pizelles.
(17) Cotton candy.
(18) Candied apples.
(19) Confections such as salted caramel, fudge, marshmallow bars, chocolate covered marshmallow, nuts, and hard candy, or any combination thereof.
(20) Buttercream frosting, buttercream icing, buttercream fondant, and gum paste that do not contain eggs, cream, or cream cheese.
(21) Dried or Dehydrated vegetables.
(22) Dried vegetarian-based soup mixes.
(23) Vegetable and potato chips.
(24) Ground chocolate.
(25) Seasoning salt.
(26) Flat icing.
(27) Marshmallows that do not contain eggs.
(28) Popcorn balls.
(29) Dried grain mixes.
(30) Fried or baked donuts and waffles.
(31) Dried hot chocolate (dried powdered mixes or molded hardened cocoa pieces).
(32) Fruit infused vinegar (containing only high-acid fruits such as apple, crabapple, nectarine, peach, plum, quince, blackberry, blueberry, cherry,
cranberry, grape, huckleberry, gooseberry, loganberry, pomegranate, pineapple, raspberry, strawberry, tomatillo, youngberry, grapefruit, kumquat,
lemon, lime, orange).
(33) Dried fruit powders.
(34) Dried spiced sugars.
(35) Dessert sprinkles (edible) such as sanding and crystal sugars, non-pareils, confetti, sequins, dragees, sugar-shapes, sugar-strands (jimmies), comfits,
mini-chocolates, and pralines.
fdbinfo@cdph.ca.gov
Email thi
s address to submit a request for a food item not listed above. No guarantee for approval.
**These items must comply with standards described in Part 150 of Title 21 of the Code of Federal
Regulations http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/c
fdocs/cfCFR/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=150
Food descriptions:
5. Product Labeling: Initial if you agree to abide by the following: _
For
a detailed description, see the CDPH document “Labeling Requirements for Cottage
Food Products.” All cottage food products must be properly labeled in compliance with the
Federal, Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. Sec. 343 et seq.) The label must include:
• The words “Made in a Home Kitchen” in 12-point type
• The name commonly used to describe the food product
• The name city, state and zip code of the cottage food operation which produced the
cottage food product. If the firm is not listed in the current telephone directory then a
street address must also be declared. (A contact phone number or email address is
optional but may be helpful for consumers to contact your business.
• The registration or permit number of the cottage food operation which produced the
cottage food product and in the case of “Class B” CFOs, the name of the county where
the permit was issued.
• The ingredients of the food product, in descending order of predominance by weight, if the
product contains two or more ingredients.
Rev. 11/20
Page 3 of 5
• The net quantity (count, weight, or volume) of the food product. It must be stated in
both English (pound) units and metric units (grams).
• A declaration on the label in plain language if the food contains any of the eight
major food allergens such as milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, wheat, peanuts,
and soybeans. There are two approved methods prescribed by federal law for
declaring the food sources of allergens in packaged foods: 1) in a separate summary
statement immediately following or adjacent to the ingredient list, or 2) within the
ingredient list.
• If the label makes approved nutrient content claims or health claims, the label must
contain a “Nutrition Facts” statement on the information panel.
o
The use of the following eleven terms are considered nutrient content claims
(nutritional value of a food): free, low, reduced, fewer, high, less, more, lean,
extra lean, good source, and light. Specific requirements have been
established for the use of these terms. Please refer to the Cottage Food
Labeling Guideline for more details.
o
A health claim is a statement or message on the label that describes the
relationship between a food component and a disease or health-related
condition (e.g., sodium and hypertension, calcium and osteoporosis). Please
refer to the Cottage Food Labeling Guideline for more details.
• Labels must be legible and in English (accurately translated information in another
language may accompany it).
• Labels, wrappers, inks, adhesives, paper, and packaging materials that come into
contact with the cottage food product by touching the product or penetrating the
packaging must be food-grade (safe for food contact) and not contaminate the food.
Examples
6. Water Source:
Please identify the water source to be used in Cottage Food Facility (Check one box)
MADE IN A HOME KITCHEN
Class A Registration #12345
Issued in: Contra Costa County
Chocolate Chip Cookies With Walnuts
Sally Baker
123 Cottage Food Lane
Yourtown, CA 90000
Ingredients: Enriched flour (wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine,
mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid), butter (milk, salt) chocolate chips
(sugar, chocolate liquor, cocoa butter, butterfat (milk)), walnuts, sugar, eggs,
salt, artificial vanilla extract, baking soda.
Contains: Wheat, eggs, milk, soy, walnuts
Net Wt. 3 oz. (85.049g)
MADE IN A HOME KITCHEN
Class B Permit #12345
Issued in: Contra Costa County
Chocolate Chip Cookies With Walnuts
Sally Baker
123 Cottage Food Lane
Yourtown, CA 90000
Ingredients: Enriched flour (wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine,
mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid), butter (milk, salt) chocolate chips
(sugar, chocolate liquor, cocoa butter, butterfat (milk)), walnuts, sugar, eggs,
salt, artificial vanilla extract, baking soda.
Contains: Wheat, eggs, milk, soy, walnuts
Net Wt. 3 oz. (85.049g)
Name of Public Water System or Community Services District:
Rev. 11/20
Page 4 of 5
If you use a Private Water Supply**, identify the source (well, spring, surface, etc.): Pittsburg,
Private Water Supply:
Initial Water Quality Results
Check boxes below if
initial water testing has been completed.
All testing must be done at a State Certified Laboratory.
Then either attach lab results or provide name of lab, date & results in space provided next to type of test.
* (Testing Frequencies for Transient Non
-Community Water Systems after initial testing)
Bacteriological Test (quarterly*):
Nitrate Test (yearly*):
Nitrite (every 3 years*):
**Additional information may be required if food is prepared from a home with a private water supply – Check with local jurisdiction
7. Disposal of Waste:
Please check what type of treatment is used to dispose of waste
Public Sewer Service
Private Septic System
۰ In the event of septic system failure or plumbing problem, you are required to notify the
Contra Costa Environmental Health Division immediately at (925) 608-5500.
8. Food Processor Course: Initial if you agree to abide by the following:
Within 3 months of being approved to operate by the Environmental Health Division, please
provide proof of completion of the required California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
food processor course*.
* See CDPH Website for more information: http://www.cdph.ca.gov/programs/Pages/fdbCottageFood.aspx
9. Employee: Initial if you agree to abide by the following:
I understand that I may not have more than one full-time equivalent cottage food employee,
not including a family member or household member of the cottage food operator, working
within the registered or permitted area of a private home where the cottage food operator
resides and where cottage food products are prepared or packaged for direct, indirect, or
direct and indirect sale to consumers.
10. Gross Annual Sales: Initial if you agree to abide by the following: _
I understand that I will lose my CFO status and will need to become permitted in a
commercial facility if my CFO business exceeds the following gross annual sales figures for
the calendar years in the following table:
Rev. 11/20
Page 5 of 5
2015 and in subsequent years...................$50,000
11. Delivery Limitations: Initial if you agree to abide by the following:
I understand that I may accept orders and payments via the internet, mail or phone. However, all
“Class A” & “Class B” CFO products must be delivered directly (in person) to the customer. The
CFO products may not be delivered via US Mail, UPS, FedEx or using any other indirect
delivery method as this is regulated/subject to CDPH registration and state and federal
requirements.
12. Owner’s Statement:
I, , agree to grant access to Contra Costa Environmental
Health Division to conduct an inspection of my cottage food operation (mark one):
I, , agree to notify Contra Costa Environmental Health
Division prior to modifying my food list, type of operation, and/or method of selling,
distributing, or otherwise providing my CFO products to the consumer or retailers,
regardless of whether the product is sold, consigned, or given away.
Owner’s Signature
Print Name
Date
Calendar Year Gross Annual Sales
“Class A”: In the event of a
consumer complaint or reported
food-borne illness
“Class B”: For regular annual facility
inspections and in the event of a
consumer complaint or food-borne illness
click to sign
signature
click to edit
Rev. 11/20
Page 1 of
Environmental Health Division
2120 Diamond Boulevard, Suite 100, Concord, CA 94520
(925) 608-5500 FAX (925) 608-5502 (www.cchealth.org/eh)
COTTAGE FOOD OPERATIONS (CFOs – Class A/B)
SELF CERTIFICATION CHECKLIST
The following requirements are outlined in the Cottage Food Operations (CFO) regulations and are provided as
minimum standards of health and safety for the preparation of approved cottage foods in the home.
CFO Business Name:
CFO Owner Name:
CFO Physical Address:
CFO City:
CFO ZIP:
Phone:
FA
PR
PE
Above bold boxes for office use only.
Facility Requirements: Yes No
Zonin
g Requirements: Yes No
Emplo
yee and Training Requirements: Yes No
1. The CFO is located in a private dwelling where the CFO operator currently resides
2. All CFO food preparation will take place in the private kitchen within that home.
3. Additional storage used for the CFO will be within the home.
a. If YES, is the room used exclusively for storage?
b. Specify the room(s) that will be used for storage?
4. Sleeping quarters are excluded from areas used for CFO food preparation or storage.
5. I have complied with the applicable zoning requirements for the CFO.
6. I have attached documentation from the Planning office (If required)
7. Have all persons preparing or packaging CFO products completed the CDPH food
processor course?
a. If YES, copies of certificates are attached.
b. If NO, complete course within 3 months of CFO registration.
8. The CFO has no more than 1 full-time equivalent employee? (Immediate family or
household members are not included.)
Rev. 11/20
Page 2 of
Sanitation Requirements: Yes No
Food P
reparation Requirements (includes packaging and handling): Yes No
12. Hand washing is required immediately prior to handling foods and after engaging in any
activity that contaminates the hands such as after using the toilet, coughing or sneezing,
eating or smoking.
13. Warm water, hand soap and clean towels are available for hand washing.
14. All food ingredients used in the CFO products are from an approved source.
15. Potable water shall be used for hand washing, ware washing and as an ingredient.
16. Is your water source a private water supply (well, spring, surface)?
a. If YES, have you completed testing for bacteria, nitrate & nitrite?
17. Is your water source a public water system or community services district?
a. If YES, what is the name of the system or district?
During the preparation, packaging or handling of CFO products:
Yes No
18. Domestic activities such as family meal preparation, dishwashing, clothes washing or
ironing, kitchen cleaning or guest entertainment are excluded from the kitchen.
19. Infants, small children (younger than 12 yr. old), or pets are excluded from the kitchen.
20. Smoking is excluded.
21. Any person with a contagious illness shall refrain from work in the CFO.
Labeling Requirements: Yes No
By signing below you are certifying that you meet the requirements of the California Homemade Food Act, AB 1616
(Gatto), as it pertains to a “Class A/B” Cottage Food Operation. Prior to making any changes, I acknowledge that I
must notify Contra Costa Environmental Health Division of any intended changes to the above statement.
Cottage Food Operator Checklist completed and submitted by:
Owner’s Signature Print Name Date
9. Kitchen equipment and utensils used to produce CFO products are clean and maintained in
a good state of repair.
10. All food contact surfaces, equipment, and utensils used for the preparation, packaging, or
handling of any CFO products shall be washed, rinsed, and sanitized before each use.
11. All food preparation and food and equipment storage areas shall be maintained free of
rodents and insects.
22. A copy of all labels have been submitted to this Department for review and approval.
23. I have attached all sample labels.
California Homemade Food Act
Frequently Asked
Questions
AB 1616 (Gatto) - Cottage Food Operations
and AB 1252 Amendments
When does the new Cottage Food Law go into effect? The new law became effective
January 1, 2013. The law requires the California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
to carry out certain tasks associated with implementation, and imposes certain
responsibilities on local planning and environmental health jurisdictions. Further
information regarding the status of implementation can be obtained from your local
environmental health agency.
1. What is a cottage food operation (CFO)? A CFO is an enterprise at a private
home where specific low-risk food products that do not require refrigeration are
made or repackaged for sale to consumers.
2. What is meant by a private home? “Private home” means a dwelling, including
an apartment or other rented space, where the CFO operator resides.
3. Are there limitations on the size of CFO sales?
$35,000 or less in gross sales annually in 2013
$45,000 or less in gross sales annually in 2014
$50,000 or less in gross sales annually in 2015 and beyond
4. Can a CFO have employees? A CFO can have one full-time equivalent employee
(not counting family members or household members).
5. What cottage foods are CFOs permitted to produce? Only specific foods that
are defined as “non-potentially hazardous” are approved for preparation by
CFOs. These are foods that do not require refrigeration to keep them safe from
bacterial growth that could make people sick.
CDPH will establish and maintain a list of approved cottage food categories on
their website. The list included in the new law includes:
Cottage Food Law Frequently Asked Questions Page 1
• Baked goods without cream, custard, or meat fillings, such as breads,
biscuits, churros, cookies, pastries, and tortillas
• Candy, such as brittle and toffee
• Chocolate-covered nonperishable foods, such as nuts and dried fruit
• Dried fruit
• Dried pasta
• Dry baking mixes
• Fruit pies, fruit empanadas, and fruit tamales
• Granola, cereals, and trail mixes
• Herb blends and dried mole paste
• Honey and sweet sorghum syrup
• Jams, jellies, preserves, and fruit butter that comply with the standard
described in Part 150 of Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
• Nut mixes and nut butters
• Popcorn
• Vinegar and mustard
• Roasted coffee and dried tea
• Waffle cones and pizzelles
• Cotton candy
• Candied apples
• Confections such as salted caramel, fudge, marshmallow bars, chocolate
covered marshmallow, nuts, and hard candy, or any combination
thereof.
• Buttercream frosting, buttercream icing, buttercream fondant, and gum
paste that do not contain eggs, cream, or cream cheese
• Dried or dehydrated vegetables
• Dried vegetarian-based soup mixes
• Vegetable and potato chips
• Ground chocolate
• Seasoning salt
• Flat icing
• Marshmallows that do not contain eggs
• Popcorn balls
• Dried grain mixes
• Fried or baked donuts and waffles
6. What are the two classifications of CFO’s?
“Class A” CFOs are only allowed to engage in “direct sales” of cottage
food.
“Class B” CFO’s may engage in both “direct sales” and “indirect sales” of
cottage food.
Cottage Food Law Frequently Asked Questions Page 2
7. What is meant by “direct sale” of cottage food? “Direct sale” means a
transaction within the state of California between a CFO operator and a
consumer, where the consumer purchases the cottage food product directly
from the CFO. Direct sales include, but are not limited to, transactions at
holiday bazaars or other temporary events, such as bake sales or food swaps,
transactions at farm stands, certified farmers’ markets, or through community-
supported agriculture subscriptions, and transactions occurring in person at the
cottage food operation.
8. What is meant by “indirect sale” of cottage food? “Indirect sale” means an
interaction within the state of California between a CFO, a third-party retailer, and
a consumer, where the consumer purchases cottage food products made by the
CFO from a third-party retailer that holds a valid permit issued by the local
environmental health agency in their jurisdiction. Indirect sales include, but are
not limited to, sales made to retail food facilities including markets, restaurants,
bakeries, and delis, where food may be immediately consumed on the premises.
9. What are limitations on Internet sales and delivery of cottage food products? A
cottage food operator may advertise as well as accept orders and payments via
Internet or phone. However, a CFO must deliver (in person) to the customer. A
CFO may not deliver any CFO products via US Mail, UPS, FedEx or using any other
third-party delivery service. A cottage food operator may not introduce a CFO
product into interstate commerce. Additionally, CFO’s can only sell cottage foods
outside their county of residence only when the local environmental health
agency of the outside county allows it.
10. What are limitations on advertising of CFO products? It is unlawful for any
person to disseminate any false advertising of any food. An advertisement is
false if it is false or misleading in any particular. A cottage food product that is
found to be falsely advertised would be subject to enforcement action.
11. Do I need any special training or certification to make cottage foods? A person
who prepares or packages cottage food products must complete a food
processor course approved by CDPH within three months of being registered or
permitted and every three years during operation.
12. Does a CFO need a permit to operate?
Planning and zoning: All CFO’s need to obtain approval from their local
c
it
y
or
Cottage Food Law Frequently Asked Questions Page 3
county planning department. The Homemade Food Act gives planning
departments several options to consider, so planning department requirements
may vary between jurisdictions.
Environmental Health: For “Class A” CFO’s (direct sale only), must complete an
annual registration with the local enforcement agency and submit a fully
completed “self-certification checklist” approved by the local environmental health
agency. For “Class B” CFO’s (either direct and indirect or indirect only), must
obtain an annual permit from the local environmental health agency.
Other requirements: Check on other state or local requirements that may be
applicable, such as Sellers Permits through the Board of Equalization, or
Business Licenses through your city or county.
Registrations and permits are nontransferable between:
1) Persons
2) Locations
3) Type of food sales [i.e., direct sales (“Class A”) vs. indirect sales
(“Class
B
”)
4) Type of distribution
13. How much will the permit or registration cost the CFO? Each local jurisdiction
will establish fees that are not to exceed the cost of providing the service.
Additional fees may be charged for inspection and/or enforcement activities if
the cottage food operation is found to be in violation of California food safety
laws on cottage food operations.
14. Will my CFO registration/permit allow me to sell at other retail venues? There
may be health permits required to sell at other locations, such as Certified
Farmers’ Markets, Swap Meets or community events. Please check with your
local environmental health department for additional permit requirements.
15. How often will a CFO be inspected?
“Class A” CFO kitchens and food storage areas (referenced in the law as the
“registered or permitted area”) are not subject to initial or routine
inspections.
“Class B” CFO kitchens and food storage areas are inspected initially prior to
permit issuance and not more than once per year.
“Class A or B” (complaint inspections) - The local environmental health
agency may access, for inspection purposes, the registered or permitted area
w
h
ere
a cottage food operation is located if the representative has, on the
basis of a consumer complaint, reason to suspect that adulterated or
Cottage Food Law Frequently Asked Questions Page 4
otherwise unsafe food has been produced by the cottage food operation or
that the cottage food operation has violated California food safety laws.
16. What are CFO operational requirements? All CFOs must comply with the
following:
• No domestic activity in kitchen during cottage food preparation
• No infants, small children, or pets in kitchen during cottage food
preparation
• Kitchen equipment and utensils kept clean and in good repair
• All food contact surfaces and utensils washed, rinsed, and sanitized
before each use
• All food preparation and storage areas free of rodents and insects
• No smoking in kitchen area during preparation or processing of
cottage food A person with a contagious illness shall refrain from
preparing or packaging cottage food products
• Proper hand-washing shall be completed prior to any food
preparation or packaging
• Water used in the preparation of cottage food products must be potable
• Cottage food preparation activities include:
o Washing, rinsing, and sanitizing of any equipment used in food
preparation
o Washing and sanitizing hands and arms
o
Water used as an ingredient of cottage food.
17. What has to be on my cottage food label?
All cottage food products must be properly labeled in compliance with the
Federal, Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. Sec. 343 et seq.).
The label must include:
•
The words “Made in a Home Kitchen” or “Repackaged in a Home Kitchen”
in 12-point type
.
•
The name commonly used to describe the food product
.
•
The name city, state and zip code of the cottage food operation which
produced the cottage food product. If the CFO is not listed in a current
telephone directory then a street address must also be declared. (A
contact phone number or email address is optional but may be helpful for
consumers to contact your business.
• The registration or permit number of the CFO which produced the
cottage food product and, in the case of “Class B” CFOs, the name of the
county where the permit was issued.
• The ingredients of the food product, in descending order of
predominance by weight, if the product contains two or more
Cottage Food Law Frequently Asked Questions Page 5
ingredients.
• The net quantity (count, weight, or volume) of the food product, it must
be stated in both English (pound) units and metric units (grams).
• A declaration on the label in plain language if the food contains any of the
eight major food allergens such as milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts,
wheat, peanuts, and soybeans. There are two approved methods
prescribed by federal law for declaring the food sources of allergens in
packaged foods: 1) in a separate summary statement immediately
following or adjacent to the ingredient list, or 2) within the ingredient list.
• The use of the following eleven terms are considered nutrient content
claims (nutritional value of a food): free, low, reduced, fewer, high, less,
more, lean, extra lean, good source, and light. Specific requirements have
been established for the use of these terms. Please refer to the Cottage
Food Labeling Guideline for more details.
• A health claim is a statement or message on the label that describes the
relationship between a food component and a disease or health-related
condition (e.g., sodium and hypertension, calcium and osteoporosis).
Please refer to the Cottage Food Labeling Guideline for more details.
• If the label makes approved nutrient content claims or health claims, the
label must contain a “Nutrition Facts” statement on the information
panel.
• Labels must be legible and in English (accurately translated information in
another language may also be included on the label). Labels, wrappers,
inks, adhesives, paper, and packaging materials that come into contact
with the cottage food product by touching the product or penetrating the
packaging must be food-grade (safe for food contact) and no
t
c
on
t
amin
ate
the food.
In a permitted retail food facility (such as a restaurant, market, or
deli), cottage food products served without packaging or labeling
shall be identified to the customer as homemade on the menu, menu
board or in another easily accessible location that would reasonably
inform the consumer that the food or an ingredient in the food has been
made in a private home.
18. What is my legal responsibility as a cottage food operator in ensuring that my
food product is safe? Cottage food operators and/or their employees shall not
commit any act that may cause contamination or adulteration of food.
This would include making foods that are not on the approved food list and or
making foods under unsanitary conditions or with spoiled or rancid ingredients.
A cottage food operation that is not in compliance with the requirements of AB
Cottage Food Law Frequently Asked Questions Page 6
click to sign
signature
click to edit
1616 and AB 1252 would be subject to enforcement action taken by the local
environmental health agency and/or the California Department of Public
Health.
19. What if I find out an ingredient I used has been recalled because it can make
people sick or has been identified as the cause of food borne illness? You
should notify your local environmental health agency or CDPH immediately and
do not distribute anymore product. You may need to notify your customers and
request that they return or dispose of the products. For specific food recall
information, you can contact CDPH at: (916) 650-6500 or email:
FDBinfo@cdph.ca.gov.
20. What is my liability as a cottage food business operating out of my home? You
should check with your homeowner insurance company or your landlord if you
are operating out of a rental property. Many homeowner insurance policies will
not extend liability coverage to liabilities arising out of home-based businesses.
21. What other educational resources and guidelines are available to assist me in
ensuring I am making a safe food product? Please see the CDPH website or
contact your local environmental health agency for guidance and resource
documents or web links.
22. What c
an I do to ensure I am still meeting legal requirements if my cottage
food operation grows to exceed the gross annual sales limit and/or I decide
want to make another type of food product that is not on the approved food
list? Please contact CDPH for registration and facility requirements for food
processors.
23. Where c
an I file a complaint about a cottage food operation or cottage food
product? You can file a complaint at the CDPH toll-free complaint line –
1-800-495-3232.
Cottage Food Law Frequently Asked Questions Page 7
CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS
SITE ADDRESS:
CARD HOLDER MAILING ADDRESS:
REASON/PURPOSE FOR PAYMENT:
CHECK ONE: MASTERCARD
VISA
(NOTE: $30.00 MINIMUM ON CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS)
NAME OF PAYOR: PHONE #:
( )
CREDIT CARD #:
EXP. DATE:
AMOUNT PAID #: AMOUNT DUE:
Contra Costa Environmental Health
2120 Diamond Blvd, Suite 100
Concord, CA 94520
Phone: (925) 608-5500
Fax: (925) 608-5502
www.cchealth.org/eh/
___________________________________ _______________________ _____________
Signature Print Name Date
OFFICE USE ONLY
PAYMENT INFO RECEIVED: PHONE FAX Walk-in
RECEIPT #:
FA #: AR #:
INFORMATION TAKEN BY: DATE:
PROCESSED BY: DATE:
FACILITY NAME/EVENT NAME:
E-MAIL
DISCOVER
3 DIGIT CODE ON BACK OF CARD:
-
-
-
/
Download
Save PDF to desktop
Email
Email completed PDF
Send for Signing
Email for others to sign
Print
Print document
Choose a Field
Click on a field and
select the person that should complete it
Want to add a signature?
You can add a signature field
and assign it to someone else
to sign
Choose a Field
Click on a field and
select the person that should complete it

Starting your Contra Costa County Cottage Food Operation

This document is locked as it has been sent for signing.

You have successfully completed this document.

Other parties need to complete fields in the document. You will recieve an email notification when the document has been completed by all parties.

This document has been signed by all parties.

Completed 9 January 2021

Message

View Audit Log
Print With Audit Log
Duplicate Document