Step 1: Recipe Submission & Review

Before we begin, we’ll provide a signed Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) to protect your formula. Once signed, send a sample of your product along with your detailed recipe, including:

• Weighted measurements (ounces, grams, pounds, or gallons)

• Cooking time, procedure, and yield

• Any brand-specific ingredients, allergen requirements, or ingredient restrictions

Our development team will evaluate your recipe to confirm ingredient sourcing, scale-up potential, and cost efficiencies. We typically recommend substituting branded name ingredients with equivalent bulk-grade components to reduce production costs while maintaining the same flavor profile.

Step 2: Sample Production & Pricing

Once the R&D fee is received, our Product Development Team will reproduce your formula and provide a sample for approval.

• R&D Fee: Starts at $275 per recipe, with discounts for multiple formulations.

• Product Duplication Fee: If your formula needs reverse engineering or duplication, the fee may reach $400 for breakdown and testing.

• Transparency: The R&D fee covers testing and formulation but does not transfer ownership of the final manufacturing formula developed by Imperial Polk Bottling Co.

You’ll receive a sample batch, flavor report, and clear production pricing structure before manufacturing begins.

Step 3: Packaging, Nutritional Analysis & Labeling

Once your sample is approved, we’ll discuss packaging options and provide a full production quote.
We can help you manage every stage of packaging, labeling, and compliance:

• Packaging Options: Bottles, jars, closures, and label sizes to match your brand.

• Nutritional Analysis: $150 per formula ($25 per additional size). Tailored for your container size and servings per package.

• FDA & USDA Compliance: We ensure all nutritional and allergen information meets regulatory standards.

• UPC / Bar Codes: Required for retail or online sales. Available for $25 each.

• Label Design Services: Available for an additional fee — our team ensures your design fits your branding and label regulations.

If you prefer to order your own labels, we’ll provide the exact file format needed to ensure compatibility with our machinery.

Step 4: Lab Testing & Certification

Sauces, marinades, and similar products must undergo independent lab testing to ensure shelf-life and stability.

• Process Authority Letter: Required by the FDA and Florida Department of Agriculture, typically $250–$550 per product.

• Seasonings & Rubs: Exempt from this testing.
  Imperial Polk Bottling Co. can assist in arranging and expediting these tests to help you launch faster.

Production & Fulfillment Details

• Batch Sizes: No minimum requirement — larger quantities reduce per-unit costs.

• Lead Time: Approximately four weeks from final approval to production.

• Deposit: 65% deposit due upon order, with balance due at pickup or shipping.

• Storage: Orders not picked up or shipped within one week may incur storage fees.

• Materials Provided: All containers, closures, and raw materials are supplied by Imperial Polk Bottling Co.

We source ingredients in bulk to keep your costs competitive while maintaining flavor integrity. Small differences in bulk ingredient flavor profiles may occur, but the final consumer will not notice these subtle variations.