Useful Fact Sheet on Home based food businesses

A food business is any activity involving the handling of food intended for sale. If the handling of food occurs at a domestic premises, there are a number of special considerations involving approval and food safety which need to be considered.

Licensable home based food businesses
The Food Act 2006 (the Act) requires certain food businesses to hold a licence and some high risk food businesses to also have an accredited food safety program. Home based food business which may require a licence could include:

• preparation of food for sale at a market or fete
• bed and breakfast accommodation
• home based catering or
• motel kitchens that also serve as kitchens for owners / onsite managers.

Examples of food that is prepared in the home on a commercial basis that is not required to hold a licence under the Act include family day care operations, student boarding accommodation or providing in home support services for an individual.

For further information on determining if you require a licence and food safety program under the Act, contact your relevant local government.

Obligations of a home based food business

All food businesses that operate from home, whether they are required to hold a licence under the Act or not must comply with the requirements of the Act and provisions of the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code.

Licensable food businesses are required to nominate a food safety supervisor and catering businesses are also required to have an accredited food safety program. For further information on food safety supervisors and food safety programs see food safety fact sheets 18, 20 and 22 available on the Queensland Health website at www.health.qld.gov.au/foodsafety.

However, before a food business can commence operating, approval from the local government is required. Prior to commencing any business activities, it is recommended that you speak with town planning, building, plumbing and environmental health staff to obtain the correct approvals and information. Some local governments may not permit particular food businesses to operate from a domestic kitchen or premises.

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Queensland Health website at www.health.qld.gov.au/foodsafety