What kind of space do you need for roasting?

[xCSx]

Hi,

I am in the early investigation stages of becoming a small roaster. I was wondering what kind of space do you need to say roast about 500 lbs a month. Does it have to be a commercial kitchen type space? Any old warehouse will do? Anything zoned commercial?


Thanks

 

[CoffeeJunky]

Hi,

I am in the early investigation stages of becoming a small roaster. I was wondering what kind of space do you need to say roast about 500 lbs a month. Does it have to be a commercial kitchen type space? Any old warehouse will do? Anything zoned commercial?


Thanks

Any space would work but you need to decide ifyou want to just roast or also have retail out let as well. Good luck

 

[eldub]

You are going to need a wholesale or retail food producers license, depending on if the majority of your sales will be wholesale or retail. A wholesale food prep license in our state requires a two hole sink and maybe an employee hand washing sink.

Check with your local DIA, (Department of Inspections and Appeals) to learn the requirements in your state.

 

[CoffeeJunky]

You are going to need a wholesale or retail food producers license, depending on if the majority of your sales will be wholesale or retail. A wholesale food prep license in our state requires a two hole sink and maybe an employee hand washing sink.

Check with your local DIA, (Department of Inspections and Appeals) to learn the requirements in your state.

In Michigan, they call the health department and we require 3 hole sink.... lol..... They also require mop bucket and 2 ADA bathrooms.
This all will require tons of investment. That is why I asked what he is planning on doing. If you just want to roast, go into industrial building and roast the hell out with very little restriction but retail outlet or coffee house will require much more space and investment....

Good Luck

 

[eldub]

I wasn't talking about retail roasting. If you plan on selling beans here in Iowa, you need a food license, be it wholesale or retail. Retail has more requirements, but the state still gets involved if you want to sell beans wholesale. (I presume the guy wants to sell the beans he's planning on roasting...)

 

[CoffeeJunky]

ah.. ok... I didn't think you need license for roasted beans.... good to know...

 

[eldub]

In Iowa, you can get away with a two hole sink if most of your business comes from wholesale roasting. YOu just have to prove to the health inspector that you can wash, rinse and sanitize dishes with two sink basins. We can also work the farmers' markets with a wholesale license but do need a special permit to sell at art shows, etc.

We got a wholesale license when we opened, but are currently doing more business at a retail level. That means our license will probably be changed to retail next time around but that shouldn't be a problem. (We already have a three hole sink, employee hand wash sink, mop sink and floor drain.)

 

[xCSx]

Thanks all for the info