Any food company interested in producing their own product must be aware of state and federal health regulations and standards, as well as the time and costs associated with getting a kitchen up to code. In addition to regulations regarding the kitchen, there are also city zoning laws that might restrict certain business activities on the company's property. If your company is facing these obstacles, you might want to consider contracting with a copacker and using the following pointers to simplify the search process:

Start with TDA

TDA has the comprehensive resources you need to start your search. Check with the GO TEXAN program by calling (877) 99GO-TEX for a list of copacker companies in Texas.

Decide on a recipe

Determine whether you will use your own recipe or if you will work with your copacker to develop a new recipe according to your specifications.

Research

Take a look at how long your copacker has been in business and take the time to check references. Contact other GO TEXAN food companies who use copackers and ask questions about their experiences and ask whether or not they have any recommendations or suggestions.

Be selective

Target copackers that produce and package similar food products, as they will be set up to efficiently produce your company's product.

Meet and greet

Once you've determined which copacker you are interested in doing business with, arrange for a meeting with the company and bring your specifications. You might want to consult with your attorney on instructions to protect the confidentiality of your documents and conversation. Also, many copackers have a model confidentiality contract that you may be able to use.

Take a tour

Arrange for a meeting with the copacker company and take a tour of the facilities. Take notice of cleanliness and order. Ask to see the most recent inspection report and check to see if the copacker is operating under a quality control or food safety system. Make sure the copacker company has the equipment necessary to process, label and package your product.

A good relationship with your copacker is vital to your company's success. By establishing a solid business relationship with your copacker company, you'll find that you have the freedom to concentrate on marketing and selling your product. For more tips and information on how to find a copacker for your food product, contact Sarah Riggins, TDA's state marketing coordinator for food at (512) 475-1663 or sarah.riggins@agr.state.tx.us.

To help support GO TEXAN members, the Texas Department of Agriculture organizes the GO TEXAN Pavilion every year at the New York Summer Fancy Food and San Francisco Winter Fancy Food shows. Poles, banners, lights, and not-to-be-missed marketing activities, are some of the benefits companies in the Pavilion receive.

Are You NASFT Material?

In order to exhibit at any of the Fancy Food shows, your company must first be a member of NASFT. Here are a few questions to ask to determine your potential eligibility:

• Have you been in business for at least one year?
• Do you have a specialty product with a unique flavor, look, history or market niche?
• Do you sell to, or target, gourmet, specialty stores or large retailers with specialty divisions or sections?
• Do you have consistent customers that may be called as references?
• Are you a small to mid-sized company or large company with a specialty product or product line?

If the answer is yes to these questions, consider signing up! To do so, go to the NASFT Web site at http://www.nasft.org/ or go directly to www.specialtyfood.com/do/fancyFoodShow/QualifyForMembership.

Five Signs that the Fancy Food Show May be Ready for You

If you've joined NASFT, but you haven't attended a Fancy Food show yet, here are indicators that you may be ready to take that next step:

1. You have experience with retailers and have learned the basics such as pricing, shipping, etc.
2. You are ready to expand your business to a regional and/or national market. Because this is not an "order writing" show, you are prepared to devote time and staff to follow up with buyers and contacts.
3. You are prepared to budget to attend at least two to three shows to gain exposure to buyers.
4. You have anticipated increased need for "cash flow" to fill resulting orders.
5. You have participated in other food shows and trade shows and you're ready to take it up a notch or two.

If You Go, GO TEXAN!

Being a part of the GO TEXAN Pavilion is a great way to help establish your company's presence at the Winter and Summer Fancy Food Show. In addition to marketing support and high-profile displays, TDA also provides promotional materials, media advisories and buyer e-mail alerts. It's never too early to sign up for the next Fancy Food Show! Contact Sarah Riggins, TDA's state marketing coordinator for food, at (512) 475-1663 or sarah.riggins@agr.state.tx.us.