Universal Product Code
Products to be sold through a retail grocery store may require a Universal Product Code (UPC). The UPC is an eleven-digit numeric code that identifies a retail consumer package. The symbol can be read by a computer scanner at check stands and allows for ease in checkout, accurate pricing, and collection of sales data. Although the UPC program in voluntary, a manufacturer’s number assignment can only be obtained through membership in the Uniform Code Council. Sales volume determines cost of the membership.
The UPC code information can be obtained through the following office:
Uniform Code Council, Inc.
7887 Washington Village Drive, Suite 300
Dayton, OH 45459
Phone: 937-435-3870
http://www.uc-council.org/
Limited Partnership or Corporation
Secretary of State’s Office, Corporations Division
302 West Washington Street, Room E-018
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Information Line: 317.232.6576
Web Site: http://www.in.gov/sos/business/2426.htm
Office Hours: 8:00 am to 5:30 pm Monday through Friday, except state holidays
Trademark and Service Marks
A trademark or servicemark is any word, name, symbol or design, or any combination thereof, used to distinguish the goods or services rendered by one party from the goods or services rendered by another party. A trademark is generally used to identify goods or products while a servicemark is generally used in advertising for services.
Trademarks Deputy at the Secretary of State’s Office
302 W. Washington Street, Room E111
Indianapolis, IN 46204
317.232.6540
http://www.in.gov/sos/business/2379.htm
Wastewater Management
Those persons proposing to build or operate an actual facility that may need a permit should consult IDEM Office of Water Quality – Permits Branch for a complete discussion of permitting requirements within Indiana.
Indiana Department of Environmental Management
Permits Branch
317.232.8760
http://in.gov/idem/cleanwater/2337.htm
Kosher Certification
Food that conforms to strict Jewish biblical laws pertaining not only to the type of food that may be eaten, but to the kinds of food that can be combined at one meal (for example, meat and dairy products may not be mixed). In order to meet kosher standards and receive the kosher seal, food must be prepared under a rabbi's supervision. In addition to the kinds of animals considered kosher (pigs and rabbits are among the non- kosher group), the laws also decree that animals be fed organically grown food and killed in the most humane manner possible. The word "kosher" is a derivation of the Hebrew kasher, meaning "proper" or "pure." Because kosher foods bear an inherent hallmark of wholesomeness and quality, they are rapidly becoming popular with a new market of health-conscious consumers. Kosher foods can be purchased in most supermarkets throughout the United States. Some of these dietary laws include:
- No shellfish
- No animals with cloven hoof
- No mixing of dairy and meat products
- Equipment used for a dairy or meat product must be appropriately cleaned before being used for any other product
- Food production must be verified by a Kosher monitoring agency or an Orthodox Jewish Rabbi.
If Kosher standards are met, a symbol signifying the Kosher approved status of the products can be placed on the packaging label. National and regional monitoring agencies each have their own symbol and the rights for use of the symbol. To obtain more information about Kosher Certification:
Rabbi Genack (U)
Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations
45 West 36th Street
New York, New York 10018
(212) 563-4000
Organic Certification
Indiana Organic Certification Standards (375 IAC 1)
Indiana Organic Certification Accreditation Law (IC 15-4-2)
www.in.gov/dor/
Zoning and septic system information
Please contact your local health department