I want to start producing a dairy product and selling them to stores where do i start? who do i call? what are the legalities involved in runnig it heimish out my basement (untill it takes off) etc.?
You are dealing with very complicated rules from federal, state and local public health officials. Compared to them, getting a hecksher is easy.
You might be able to make free samples for friends or prospective investors but to avoid getting arrested talk to a lawyer used to working with the food industry.