Food Safety Regulatory Agencies and Steps to Opening a Food Business in Florida

Florida food entrepreneurs must comply with food safety regulations and licensing requirements that are administered by three state agencies. Determining which agency regulates a particular food business can be challenging because regulatory authority depends on the type of business. This publication provides an overview of the role of three main agencies, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and the Florida Department of Health, and outlines the basic steps involved in opening and licensing a food business in Florida.