Starting an organic egg business can be profitable.
Nowadays, more people are getting conscious about using organic products. These products command premium prices, and thus producers often prefer to sell them. However, to do so, you must be careful to follow and adhere to organic guidelines. Starting an organic egg business requires you to plan your operation, marketing and business strategy clearly so that once the business is operational, there are no hiccups.
Instructions
1. Visit a cooperative extension service before you start your organic eggs business. They have a lot of information available regarding regulations, pricing and locations that you can use to start the business. They also have extensive information available about guidelines, loans and other services needed to start an organic egg business.
2. Find certified partners. Contact your local courthouse or business license granting authority and check the guidelines regarding organic egg production and distribution. The business must be accredited by the concerned authority of the area--in the U.S., this is done by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Contact the FDA agents who will carry out the inspection, develop the plan for implementation and approve the plans for operation. Contact the licensing and inspecting agents after consulting with other business owners. Ask the other business owners what to expect from the inspections to help you better prepare for them.
3. Comply with organic egg production standards. Make sure your chickens are able to move around and are cage-free with regular access to the outside. Generally, in organic egg operations, the chickens are raised with cement flooring rather than shavings or bedding. Have a warm and dry place available at all times of the year. Do not use artificial ingredients in the chicken feed. The inspecting agent will provide a checklist that will help you set up your operation. He will help you set the right number of chickens according to the square footage of your location.
4. Look for special financing. Most states have grants available for sustainable and organic food-production efforts. Check the Grants.gov Web site for funding opportunities in your state from the federal government and ask for green grants or loans at your local Small Business Association chapter.
5. Advertise your business. Establish relationships with local food distributors, such as supermarkets, or find out get a spot at your local farmers' market. Starting small and building on good relationships can create larger opportunities to distribute through large organic and healthy-food retailers, such as Whole Foods.
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