On Monday, Nov. 18, “Take a Big Bite: Expand Your Food Business” took place at the Glenwood Springs Library. The Hablemos de Negocios group, under the Glenwood Springs Chamber of Commerce, organized this event to outline the requirements for obtaining the necessary licenses and permits to start or expand a food business.
Additionally, various resources for interested individuals were presented. The guest expert was Dr. Rebecca Rogers, an environmental health specialist and leader of the Consumer Protection Team in Garfield County’s Public Health Department.
Attendees, mostly members of the Hispanic community, had the opportunity to hear an engaging presentation, during which they received valuable information and had many questions answered. “We want to start a business, but a barrier is the lack of clear information on how to meet the requirements. The good thing is that here we’re getting information and resources about what types of food can be sold,” one participant commented.
The presentation was not only inclusive but also highly interactive and sensitive to the attendees’ needs, allowing them to ask many questions. “The Consumer Protection Department is here to help fulfill your dreams of opening a food business,” Dr. Rogers said.
Some of the most relevant questions included:
What is a commissary kitchen?
Rogers: A commissary is a private or community kitchen that is well-equipped and meets legal standards. It allows you to prepare food for your business with the highest quality standards. Remember, it is not feasible to prepare food for sale in your home kitchen or, often, in a food truck’s kitchen. In most cases, securing a commissary kitchen is necessary.
What is the process for obtaining permits to sell food?
R: First, we have a complete application package at the Garfield County Health Department. You need to plan carefully and pay close attention to every detail. This includes what you will sell, how you will prepare it, your waste management plan and where the food will be cooked, among other important points.
What type of food requires a license or permit?
R: Any food that will be sold or distributed requires a permit, whether through a restaurant or a food truck. Especially food that needs refrigeration or temperature control. Homemade food does not require a permit.
What is homemade or cottage food?
R: This refers to food that does not need refrigeration or temperature control, such as baked goods, cookies, coffee and some fermented drinks like kombucha. Remember, no license is needed if sales are under $10,000.
Do we need a license to sell at a special event or fair?
R: Yes. This is a different type of license that involves a detailed plan for preparation, transport and hygiene at the point of sale. For catering services, you can operate with the same restaurant license. These licenses cost $225 per year.
Can alcohol be sold with any of these licenses?
R: No. You need a separate license to sell alcohol.
What legal documents must I present to apply for a permit?
R: We accept any form of identification, such as a license or any document with your name and address. It’s uncommon for you to need anything else, like a Social Security number.
Who can help with the application?
R: Our friendly and qualified team at the Public Health Department and Consumer Protection can assist you. Alternatively, I recommend contacting a professional food consultant.
Lastly, emphasis was placed on the support from the Garfield Consumer Protection and Public Health Department, which is committed to guiding individuals through licensing processes and promoting a culture of food safety and hygiene. Dr. Rogers provided the community with several resources.
Resources and training for food industry entrepreneurs:
Adelante Community: adelantecommunity.org
Hispanic Restaurant Association: hispanicrestaurantassociation.org
Colorado SBDC: www.coloradosbdc.org
Glenwood Chamber of Commerce: www.glenwoodchamber.com
FirstBank Video: www.bit.ly/firstbankvideo
B:Side Video: www.bit.ly/b-sidevideo