Expert: Jim Gawley - 9/9/2008

Question
Hi,  I manufactured sauces and spices in Colorado.  Now I live in South Lake Tahoe Ca and would like to start up here.  I am having a devil of a time finding out EXACTLY what licenses and food labeling requirements I need for this state.  Am also looking at Nevada.  I have been to their health dept. websites but I find it confusing.  I can get a licensed kitchen to produce but then what????

Answer
Hi Alice,

I guessing that you don't produce enough to fall under the federal labelling requirements from FDA.

I am not well versed enough in state laws to give you the exact solution. You could try a local university, they often have small business incubators that could help, try the NASFT at http://www.specialtyfood.com or contact some licensed kitchens and find out what their range of services are.

You can also try SCORE which is a group of retired execs. that help business owners - http://www.score.org/index.html

Good Luck,
Jim