Yes, selling homemade food in Egypt is permitted under specific conditions, primarily governed by the Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) and local governorate bylaws. The 2023 Food Safety Law (Law No. 181) and its 2026 implementing regulations allow small-scale production but require registration, hygiene compliance, and zoning approvals. Street vendors and home-based producers must adhere to municipal permits, while commercial kitchens face stricter scrutiny.
Key Regulations for Selling Homemade Food in Egypt
- Licensing and Registration: Home-based food businesses must register with the MoHP’s Food Safety Authority (FSA) under the Small-Scale Food Production category. Commercial kitchens require a Food Business Operator license, mandating inspections for hygiene and storage conditions.
- Zoning and Location Restrictions: Governorates like Cairo and Giza prohibit home-based sales in residential zones without municipal approval. Commercial zones or designated markets (e.g., Souk El Gomaa in Cairo) are preferred for legal operation.
- Product-Specific Rules: Perishable items (e.g., dairy, meat) require cold-chain compliance and labeling with expiry dates. Homemade baked goods must meet MoHP’s Bakery Products Standard (2024), including ingredient transparency and allergen warnings.