Selling cakes, preserves or prepared meals from home involves more than registering a business. Food safety and premises rules may apply to the activity, the food and the place where it is prepared. Contact the relevant authority before investing in equipment or taking orders.
Register the business and ask about the premises
The Food Act 2022 says a person must not operate a food business unless registered under the Business Registration Act. The Food Regulations 2024 set out requirements for food premises and food handlers. Ask the Ministry of Health and Wellness and your local authority which requirements apply to your products and premises. A home kitchen is not automatically approved for commercial food preparation.
Check food handler requirements
The regulations state that people involved in preparing, packing, serving, carrying or delivering food for sale must hold a valid Food Handler’s Certificate. The rules describe medical examination and food safety training requirements. Read the current Food Regulations and contact the responsible health office about the application process and any fees.
A short list before your first sale
- Describe the food you plan to make and how it will be prepared, stored and delivered.
- Ask which registrations, premises conditions, inspections and certificates apply.
- Check packaging and labelling rules for the products you will sell.
- Keep supplier receipts, production costs and sales records from the start.
Rules can depend on the product and setup. This guide is a starting checklist, not a permit or food safety approval. Fam Antreprenan can help with business registration and bookkeeping preparation; the public authorities decide which food rules apply.