How to sell food online in Alaska.

Alaska DEC states that eligible homemade food may be sold online within Alaska. That does not mean every product follows the same sales method. Start by identifying your food type, where it is produced, and the local jurisdiction in which you operate.

1. Identify what kind of food business you operate

A permitted food business, caterer, restaurant, bakery and homemade-food producer can face different requirements. If you are using Alaska's homemade-food exemption, review DEC's current food-type and selling-method pages before accepting orders.

2. Know whether direct-to-consumer rules apply

DEC says potentially hazardous homemade food must be sold by the producer directly to the consumer. Non-potentially hazardous homemade food can have additional agent-of-producer options. Your online workflow needs to match the rule that applies to your products.

3. Check state and local requirements

Alaska DEC notes that local jurisdictions may add requirements and specifically calls out the Municipality of Anchorage. DEC also says a business license is generally required, with exceptions that sellers should confirm with the appropriate licensing authority.

4. Build a storefront customers can understand

Whether you use Arctic Plate or another sales channel, keep product names, photos, prices, availability, pickup information and required disclosures current. Clear listings reduce confusion and make it easier for people searching online to understand what you sell.

5. Use Arctic Plate as a marketplace channel

Arctic Plate lets approved sellers in supported communities create a public storefront, control menu pricing and availability, and manage marketplace orders. Current launch pricing is $0/month for seller access with no seller commission on food sales during launch. Pricing may evolve, so the current Arctic Plate pricing page is authoritative for the launch offer.

Review current Arctic Plate pricing →

6. Keep your existing customers and channels

Arctic Plate does not require seller exclusivity. A seller can continue using farmers markets, social media, preorders and other channels while using the marketplace as an additional discovery and ordering option.