Before launching your food business, whether from home or in a commercial space, it’s crucial to clearly define your product and map out all food handling processes step-by-step, considering ingredients, potential allergens, manufacturing methods, shelf stability, packaging, and sales channels (direct to consumers or via retailers). Beyond food safety and quality, you must also be aware of and comply with various South African laws and regulations, including business licensing, health and safety permits, zoning permits, tax laws, employment acts, consumer protection acts, and competition laws.