Individual Food Product License vs Catering License: Which One Applies to Your Food Business in Florida?

Individual Food Product License vs Catering License in Florida

Starting a food business can be an excellent opportunity, but it also requires complying with specific licenses and regulations. Many people believe they need a catering license to sell their products, when in fact, what they really need is a license for individual products. In this article, we explain the outcome of Individual Food Product License vs Catering License, their main differences, and how to determine which one applies to your case.

Differences Between the Individual Food Product License and the Catering License

What Is a Catering License?

 A catering business provides food services for various events, including weddings, parties, and corporate gatherings. This type of operation involves preparing food or drinks in a licensed commercial kitchen and then transporting them to the event location.

Under a catering license:

• You cannot sell individual meals or takeout orders.

• You cannot offer home deliveries or sales without a prior service contract.

• You must comply with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) food safety regulations.

• All food storage and preparation must occur in a state-licensed kitchen.

This license is ideal for companies that provide catering services exclusively for pre-contracted events where one person pays for the entire service.

What Is an Individual Food Product License?

The individual food product license or retail food business license applies to entrepreneurs who sell directly to consumers. Examples of businesses that need this license include:

• Bakeries and coffee shops.

• Supermarkets and convenience stores.

• Juice and smoothie bars.

• Businesses selling prepackaged food items.

• Mobile food units that sell non-hazardous foods.

These operations allow you to sell individual food products without requiring a service contract, as long as the food is prepared in licensed kitchens and complies with the FDA Food Code adopted by the State of Florida.

Safety Requirements and High-Risk Food Operations

For both catering and retail food businesses, food storage and preparation cannot take place in private residences.

Certain activities are considered high-risk food processes and require a Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan as well as a State-Approved Process Alternative.

Examples of high-risk processes include:

• Vacuum or reduced oxygen packaging.

• Use of additives or preservatives.

• Freshly squeezed juices.

• Smoked, cured, or fermented foods.

• Pickled foods and jerky.

Meeting these standards is essential to obtaining a food business license and operating legally in Florida.

How to Determine Which License You Need

Choosing between a catering license and an individual food product license depends on several factors:

• How you charge for your services. If you charge per event, catering fees apply; if you charge per product, a retail license is required.

• Where you prepare food. It must always be in a licensed kitchen.

• How you deliver products. If you transport or sell directly to customers, you’ll need the appropriate license for it.

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Each license has specific requirements, so it’s essential to evaluate your business operations before applying.

License Pro: Your Partner for Food Licensing in Florida

At License Pro, we evaluate your business processes before applying for any license to ensure you meet the correct requirements and avoid unnecessary costs. Our team has years of experience as Florida State Health Inspectors, providing us with the expertise to offer professional guidance and practical solutions.

We help you:

• Determine the type of license your business requires.

• Prepare the necessary documentation.

• Ensure compliance with the FDA Food Code.

• Accelerate the approval process to start your business faster.

  
  

📞 Phone: (407) 448-9183 

📧 Email: info@thelicensepro.com 

🌐 Website: www.thelicensepro.com

Conclusion

An individual food product license and a catering license are distinct. Each one has different purposes, requirements, and conditions depending on how your business operates.

Before applying for any license, consult with License Pro. We’ll help you determine which license you really need, ensure you meet all Florida State regulations, and guide you to avoid costly mistakes.

With License Pro, you can get your food business license with confidence and start operating safely and legally.