The new Manufactured Food Rule went into effect August 1, 2024. Read about the changes for licensed and exempt food processors.
You will need a food processing license if you are operating a manufacturing facility to make products like salsa, sauce, salad dressing, coffee, beverages, snacks, candy, chocolate, condiments, jam and jelly, etc. Warehouses and distribution centers also need this type of license.
The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) overhauled the way it regulates food facilities with the implementation of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). FDA has finalized seven major rules as part of the Act. Find more about the rules and related programs of the FSMA.
Certain small food facilities may qualify for modified requirements if they file a Qualified Facility Attestation. Read more about the Qualified Facilities Determination.
Most food facilities that manufacture, process, pack, or hold food for human or animal consumption in the United States are required to register with the Food & Drug Administration. Use these resources to find out more about the requirements:
There are certain conditions where very small food processors are exempt from licensing. You can read about the exemption and submit the necessary paperwork by selecting the button below. Please note that claiming an exemption from the licensing requirements does not exempt an establishment from compliance with the food safety and sanitation requirements in the Good Manufacturing Practices for Food Rule, nor does the exemption prevent a public health inspector from inspecting your establishment to ensure those requirements are being complied with and investigating any potential health hazards.
| Title | Description |
|---|---|
| FDA Guidance for Industry: Food Labeling Guide | Labeling and nutrition guidance documents from the Food & Drug Administration. |
| Food Processing Authorities | Search a list of food processing authorities provided by the Association of Food & Drug Officials (AFDO). |
| Labeling for Food Producers and Processors | UVM fact sheet for clarifying label requirements on food products commonly sold in Vermont. |
| When You're Healthy, We're All Healthy | Video for food establishments to share with food workers about how to keep illnesses from spreading. |
| Training Documentation Template I | Use this template to record trainings at your establishment. This option is for a running list of all trainings. |
| Training Documentation Template II | Use this template to record trainings at your establishment. This option is for tracking each training by topic. |
| Log Sheets | Print these food safety log sheet templates for use in your establishment. |
| Manufactured Food Rule | Full text of requirements for food processors. |
A process authority review is required before producing low-acid canned foods, acidified foods, or if it is requested by the Health Department. Search the Directory of Food Processing Authorities.
Basic labeling requirements for products commonly made in Vermont can be found on this UVM Extension fact sheet. Detailed information about federal requirements can be found in the FDA Labeling & Nutrition Guidance for Industry.
Food processors, warehouses, and distribution centers need to register with the FDA. Find more information here to evaluate requirements for your facility about FDA Food Facility Registration.
Read more about FSMA on the Food & Drug Administration website.
Food & Lodging Program
Mailing address:
VT Dept of Health
Environmental Health
Food & Lodging Program
280 State Drive
Waterbury, VT 05671-8350
Phone: 802-863-7221 or 800-439-8550 (toll-free within Vermont)
Fax: 802-863-7483
Email: FoodLodging@vermont.gov
