AboutCarol Schlitt Expertise I can answer questions on home food safety, sanitation, home food preservation and commercial food safety (HACCP).
Experience I am an Extension educator, nutrition, wellness and food safety. I am a certified HACCP manager and a food safety instructor for the Illinois Department of Public Health.
Organizations International Association for Food Protection, American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (Certified CFCS), National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, Society for Nutrition Education.
Education/Credentials BS - University of Illinois
MS - Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville
Question How do I sell baked goods (home made cakes) from my home?
Have read many articles regarding the subject, but find that i can't get any information pretraining to Alabama.
Already contacted the local health dept. and found out they don't certify home kitchen. I'm at a stand still, please help!!! Please give suggestions as who i can talk to regarding such, in Alabama. Don't want to go to jail.
Answer Hi Andrea,
It is possible to sell baked goods from your home so don't give up. Your local health department will not certify your home kitchen (the one you use for family meals) but can certify a separate kitchen within your home that meets regulations. In Illinois those regulations include a 3 compartment sink, separate hand sink, backflow devise on your sewer pipes (to prevent sewage from backing up in your kitchen) and surfaces that can be easily cleaned and sanitized (food work surfaces). I've seen people have a separate kitchen in the basement of their home or out building on their property. It may be best for you to investigate using an already certified and inspected kitchen such as a church or organization with a kitchen. Also, some communities have kitchens available for individuals to rent for their business.
