My family has been running restaurants in last 6-7 years now, and from my experience working and helping my parents, I'd suggest that you would probably want to start by establishing an L.L.C. for yourself (I'd think that'd require some hours consulting to your lawyer and such). Once you have that done, then you could apply for a seller's permit and food handler's permit I'd guess.
Hmm, now that I've actually started typing and thinking about it more I think producing food might be different and more complicated because of nutritional facts and all.
I'm sorry I can't be much help. All I can think is that you should probably establish a business, like an LLC, with a seller's permit, then worry about manufacturing the products.
As far as packaging I have some ideas. I was thinking how you might be able to utilize those air-tight glass jars with built-on lids (You've probably seen them at stores) or you could just have a buffet style bar (with spinning dispensers like those of coffee beans).
I'm sorry I wasn't really helpful. Good luck!
