How to start a catering business, even from home
If people already ask you to cook for their functions, you might have a business. Catering and home food businesses can start small, but food comes with rules that protect your customers and you. Here is what you need.
The Certificate of Acceptability
Every place where food is prepared for sale, including a home kitchen, a food truck or a stall, needs a Certificate of Acceptability (CoA) under the national food hygiene regulations. You apply to your municipality's environmental health office, and an inspector checks the premises: clean surfaces, running water, safe storage, pest control and proper waste handling.
Food safety habits
- The person in charge must be trained in food safety, and every food handler should know the basics.
- Keep hot food hot and cold food cold, especially when transporting to venues.
- Buy from reputable suppliers and keep receipts, so you can trace any problem.
- Label allergens clearly. Ask clients about allergies before every event.
Alcohol needs its own licence
If you sell or serve alcohol, you need a liquor licence from your provincial liquor authority, including special or temporary licences for events. Many caterers leave the bar to the venue or the client to keep things simple.
Pricing per head
Cost every menu: ingredients per portion, staff hours, transport, equipment hire, gas and your profit. Quote per head with a minimum number of guests, and take a deposit to cover ingredients. The pricing calculator and the quote maker are free.
Your first clients
Start with family functions, funerals, church events, office lunches and year-end parties. Take good photos of every spread. Corporate clients will ask for company registration and tax compliance. A free verified BizBoost listing helps event planners and businesses find you.
Common questions
Do I need a licence to sell food from home in South Africa?
You need a Certificate of Acceptability for the premises where food is prepared, including a home kitchen, from your municipality's environmental health office. Check local by-laws for any extra business licence requirements.
What is a Certificate of Acceptability?
A certificate issued by the municipality under the national food hygiene regulations confirming that food premises meet hygiene requirements. Every food business needs one.
Do caterers need a liquor licence?
Only if they sell or serve alcohol. That requires a licence from the provincial liquor authority, including special event licences.