To launch your own coffee brand in Indiana, decide first between using a licensed co-roaster/co‑packer or building a permitted roastery—your choice determines lead time, capital, and where you can sell. For e‑commerce or wholesale, operate from a commercial facility: secure local zoning and fire approvals for roasting/venting, register your business on INBiz, obtain an EIN, a Registered Retail Merchant Certificate (sales tax), and a wholesale food/food processing permit through your county health department/IDOH; if you roast, pack, or warehouse for interstate sales, complete FDA food facility registration. Indiana’s Home‑Based Vendor option allows direct, in‑state sales of shelf‑stable items like roasted coffee but generally prohibits shipping/mail order, so use it only for farmers markets/pop‑ups. Build FDA‑compliant labels: statement of identity (Roasted Coffee), net weight in oz and g (e.g., 12 oz/340 g), business name/place of business, ingredients, and a lot code/roast date; small businesses typically qualify for Nutrition Facts exemption unless making nutrient claims. Use legal‑for‑trade scales and pass county Weights & Measures inspection. Set pricing to maintain ~30–35% COGS at MSRP and 50% wholesale margin. Carry product liability insurance, implement basic GMPs, pest control, and traceable lot coding, and secure UPCs (GS1) for retail. Source spot lots, document roast profiles.
