Do I need to register my home bakery? The UK rules, plainly
If you sell food regularly from home, even small amounts, you need to register as a food business with your local council. It is free, and you should do it at least 28 days before you start trading (GOV.UK).
What counts as a food business
Selling cakes at markets, taking orders on Facebook, or supplying a local café all count. Occasional charity bake sales usually do not, but check with your council if you are unsure.
What happens after you register
Your council may visit to give you a food hygiene rating. They will want to see that you understand food safety and keep records.
Paperwork to have ready
- A food safety management system (such as the Food Standards Agency's Safer Food, Better Business pack).
- Fridge temperature records. Chilled food must be kept at 8°C or below in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and 5°C or below is the safe target (GOV.UK).
- Cleaning schedules and supplier details.
- An allergen record for every product.
Tax and self-employment
If your income from selling is more than £1,000 in a tax year, you may need to register as self-employed with HMRC (GOV.UK).
Do all of this in one place
The Sold Out Bakes toolkit prices every bake, writes your label ingredients with allergens in order, and gives you the food safety records your council expects.
Get the toolkit · £50Guidance to help you stay organised, not legal advice. Always check the latest rules with your local council.