Food servicesSide hustle guide
What is this side hustle?
Prepare baked goods, lunch packs or catering for small events.
What do you need?
- Food preparation equipment and ingredients
- Costed menu and packaging
- Safe food handling and suitable compliance checks
How to start
- Test a short menu, calculate cost per portion, take pre-orders, record expenses and check local food-handling requirements before selling.
Find your first customers
Start with people and businesses who understand the problem you solve. Use referrals, a simple portfolio, clear pricing and reliable follow-up. Record every cost and ask customers for feedback.
Basic first-month checklist
- Speak to at least five potential customers before spending heavily.
- Write down start-up costs, running costs and the price you need to charge.
- Run a small test, gather feedback and improve the offer.
- Keep records of income and expenses and check applicable local rules.
Food businesses may need permits or compliance steps; verify them locally.
Start small
Validate demand before taking on debt or buying expensive equipment. Begin with a small, clearly defined service and reinvest only when you have evidence of demand.
Explore funding options →Keep exploring with Torch CareersCompare options, build practical skills and use official sources before you apply or invest.