Opportunities may exist to use an existing processor to make your products. This is referred to as a co-packer arrangement. Issues to consider include:

• Cost & time trade off between setting up your own processing operation and using a co-packer.
• Volume and frequency of product needed.
• Legal aspects of labelling required for your product and ability of co-packer to meet these needs.
• Food safety and regulation compliance track record of co-packer.
• Production record of co-packer.
• Who is producing a product similar to mine?
• Who has excess capacity?
• Who is making a product similar to mine but with a different seasonal market?
• Does my product require specialized equipment?
• Geographic logistics to your business and market.
• Current client base of the co-packer.
• Brand of the co-packer.

For details regarding co-packer information review factsheet, Using a Co-packer, Oklahoma State University.