Do I need a food permit to sell homemade food?

In the U.S., cottage food laws vary by state. Many states allow selling certain foods from home with registration. For prepared meals, most states require a food handler's permit and potentially a commercial kitchen inspection.

How do I price my dishes?

Calculate raw ingredients, packaging, gas/delivery, and your time. A common formula: ingredient cost × 3 for retail price. Compare with local restaurants to stay competitive while maintaining your margins.

Is it better to sell directly or through DoorDash/Uber Eats?

Delivery apps charge 20-30% commission and control your customer relationship. WhatsApp lets you keep 100% of revenue and build loyalty. Start with WhatsApp, and only consider apps once you have excess capacity.

How do I keep food safe during delivery?

Use insulated bags, separate hot and cold items, and deliver within 45 minutes of preparation. Follow food safety guidelines: hot food above 140°F, cold food below 40°F.

Food & Beverages

How to Sell Food via WhatsApp

The food delivery market in the U.S. exceeded $350 billion in 2025. Homemade food businesses are booming as customers seek authentic, home-cooked meals. A digital catalog with daily menus and ordering via WhatsApp eliminates the need for expensive delivery apps.

Why Homemade Food Sells So Well via WhatsApp

People eat every day — it's the most consistent demand possible. Many professionals and families prefer homemade food over fast food chains but lack the time to cook. This is your opportunity: offer daily or weekly menus that customers can order with a simple message.

Selling via WhatsApp instead of delivery apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats means you keep 100% of your revenue without paying 20-30% commissions. You build direct relationships with your customers, can offer personalized service, and control your own delivery schedule.

5 Tips for Selling Food via WhatsApp

Publish your daily menu by 9 AM

Send your menu early so customers can plan lunch. Include a photo of each dish, the price, and a deadline for ordering. Consistency builds habit — customers will expect your daily message.

Offer weekly meal plans

Create weekly packages at a discount. For example: 5 lunches for the price of 4. This guarantees recurring revenue and helps you plan ingredient purchases more efficiently.

Invest in food photography

Natural light, clean plates, and a simple background. Take photos from above (flat lay) for platters and at 45° for plated dishes. Good photos are the #1 factor in food sales.

Create a clear delivery zone

Define your delivery radius (e.g., 5 miles) and set specific delivery windows. Offer free delivery for orders above a certain amount to encourage larger orders.

Use food-safe packaging

Invest in leak-proof containers, insulated bags, and proper labeling. Good packaging shows professionalism and ensures food arrives in perfect condition.

What Your Food Catalog Needs

Appetizing photos with natural lighting and clean presentation

Daily or weekly rotating menu with clear descriptions

Prices including serving size and portion details

Delivery zones, hours, and minimum order information

Allergen information and dietary options (vegetarian, gluten-free)

Marea Alcalina lets you create a professional digital catalog with all these features in minutes.

Create my Catalog