Setting up a processing facility is a significant investment in both time and money, particularly if you don't have access to farm buildings. Finding a suitable site is essential to avoid expensive problems further down the line. Things to think about when assessing suitability range from damp, to pests, access and the type of electricity supply. Once you have secured your premises the next stage is to select, procure and install crop processing equipment, and map the workflow of activity in the unit. Aside from the processing machinery there are many smaller items, such as scoops or trugs, which you are likely to need. Finally, in order to sell food stuffs, you have to get your paperwork in order, and this needs to begin before you start processing.

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Chapter 3 - Setting Up the Processing Unit

Here we explore the following aspects of setting up your processing unit:

3.1 Finding Suitable Processing Premises
    3.1.1 Building Practicalities     
3.1.2 Building Costs
3.2 Processing Equipment
3.3 Layout and Flow 
3.3.1 Inventory Items 
3.3.2 Recycling and Waste
3.4 Legal Requirements 
    3.4.1 Health & Safety Documentation and Policies      
3.4.2 Food Hygiene Documentation and Procedures