Cottage Foods

Cottage Food

The Retail Food section of the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) regulates cottage food producers (also known as home-kitchen food).  We make sure that all food is produced safely and to quality standards.   We also work with anyone wanting to start their own cottage food business.

 

Highlights

  • About this Program

    Cottage foods, also known as home-kitchen foods, are produced and packaged by a cottage food vendor in a kitchen and prepared for direct sale by that vendor. Cottage foods are intended for human consumption. Pet food and pet treats require a feed license from Agricultural Inputs.

    Cottage food sales are allowed under Georgia regulations. Cottage food operators are permitted to make only food that is not potentially hazardous (see examples of approved products below). Operators can use their home kitchen to make products to sell directly to consumers at non-profit events, for-profit events, and through online sales.

    Cottage food products include:

    • Loaf Breads, Rolls, and Biscuits
    • Cakes
    • Pastries and Cookies
    • Candies and Confections
    • Fruit Pies
    • Jams, Jellies, and Preserves
    • Dried Fruits
    • Dry Herbs, Seasonings and Mixtures
    • Cereals, Trail Mixes, and Granola
    • Coated or Uncoated Nuts
    • Vinegar and Flavored Vinegar
    • Popcorn, Popcorn Balls, and Cotton Candy
  • Cottage Food Vendors

    Here’s what you need to get started as a cottage food vendor in Georgia. You’ll find helpful information and rules about labeling, hygiene, food safety, nutrition and ingredients, and other subjects.

    Here’s some additional information about food labels: Food Labeling Requirements.

    Here’s our cottage vendor FAQ page: Cottage Foods FAQ

    Here's some additional guidance Non-Public Water Supply Testing Guidance

    Cottage Food Operators must complete an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accredited food safety training program. There are different levels of training, including Food Handler and Certified Food Manager. Food Handler training is acceptable for cottage food operators. View a directory of ANSI accredited programs.

  • NEW HB 398: What You Need to Know

    Effective July 1, 2025, House Bill 398 brings important updates to Georgia’s cottage food program. This new law makes it easier for home-based food producers to sell their goods, including allowing sales to retail stores and removing the state licensing requirement. Below you’ll find a summary of the key changes and answers to frequently asked questions to help you understand how HB 398 may affect you.

    HB398 Frequently Asked Questions

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