Idaho Cottage Food Laws: Complete Guide for Home Bakers
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Law Name | Idaho Cottage Food Law (per Idaho Food Code & Food Establishment Act) |
| Annual Sales Limit | No specific limit (effectively unlimited within law) |
| Licensing Required | Yes, Cottage Food Designation (assessment form required) |
| Labeling Required | Yes |
| Kitchen Inspections | Not required |
| Training & Certification | Not required |
| Where You Can Sell | Farmers markets, roadside, online, events (not retail) |
| Shipping | Allowed in-state only |
Aspiring cottage food entrepreneur in Idaho? You're in luck! Idaho has a welcoming environment for home bakers and food artisans. Understanding the Idaho Cottage Food Law will help you start or grow your business safely and legally.
Recent Changes & Pending Legislation
As of 2025, the Idaho Food Code and Food Establishment Act have been updated, but no major changes directly impact cottage food operations. Always keep an eye on local health district announcements for any new updates.
What You Can Sell
In Idaho, you can sell homemade foods that are considered low-risk. These include:
- Baked Goods: Cakes, breads, pastries, cookies (as long as they don't require refrigeration)
- Jams and Jellies: Fruit-based
- Candies and Confections
- Dried Foods: Fruits, herbs, seasonings, mixtures
- Nuts and Trail Mixes
- Other: Honey, vinegar, popcorn, popcorn balls, and cotton candy
What You Cannot Sell
Avoid selling any Time/Temperature Control for Safety (TCS) foods. These typically include:
- Perishable Items: meats, poultry, seafood, dairy products
- Prepared Foods: soups, sandwiches, salads
- Anything that requires refrigeration
Sales Limits
There are no specific sales limits outlined in Idaho's cottage food laws, meaning you can sell as much as you can make.
Where You Can Sell
You can sell your cottage foods directly to customers through:
- Farmers Markets
- Roadside Stands
- Online Platforms (within the state)
- Events (like fairs and festivals)
Retail sales are not allowed, and you can't sell out-of-state.
Licensing & Registration
To operate legally, you'll need to submit a Cottage Food Assessment Form to your local health district. This gives you the Cottage Food Designation, allowing you to sell approved foods without a full food establishment license.
Fees
The cost for obtaining the Cottage Food Designation can vary based on local health district requirements. Check with your district for specific fee details.
Kitchen Inspections
Good news—there's no routine inspection for your home kitchen under the cottage food status. All assessments are based on the form you submit, and any further inspection is rare but possible.
Labeling Requirements
Proper labeling is a must. Your labels should include:
- Product Name
- Your Name and contact information
- Ingredients list
- Allergen Information
- A statement that the product is made in a home kitchen
Sample Label
John's Sweet Treats
Contact: 555-1234
Ingredients: Flour, sugar, eggs, vanilla, baking powder.
Contains: Eggs, wheat.
Produced in a home kitchen.
Training & Certification
There are no mandatory training or certifications required to operate a cottage food business in Idaho. However, self-education about food safety is always beneficial.
Official Resources
FAQ
1. Do I need a special license to sell cottage foods?
Yes, you'll need the Cottage Food Designation from your local health district.
2. Can I sell my homemade jam online?
Yes, as long as it’s within Idaho.
3. What if my health district requires an inspection?
While inspections aren’t typically required, comply with any local district-specific requests.
4. Is there a limit to how much I can sell?
No, Idaho doesn’t impose specific sales limits for cottage food operations.
5. Can I ever sell my products out-of-state?
Not under the cottage food status. Only in-state sales are allowed.