Indiana Cottage Food Laws: Complete Guide for Home Bakers
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Law Name | Indiana Home-Based Vendor Act (HEA 1149) |
| Statute Reference | IC 16‑42‑5.3 (effective 2022) |
| Annual Sales Limit | No specified gross sales cap |
| License Required | Yes, ANSI-certified food handler certificate |
| Inspection Required | No, but local labeling inspections possible |
| Selling Venues | Farmers markets, roadside stands, in-state shipping |
| Prohibited Venues | Online sales, retail stores, events |
| Labeling Required | Yes, with specific elements |
| Training Required | Yes, ANSI-accredited Food Handler Certificate |
Welcome to your journey as an Indiana home-based vendor! If you're passionate about selling your homemade goodies, understanding the state's cottage food laws will set you on the right path. As of 2022, the Indiana Home-Based Vendor Act (HEA 1149) guides what you can produce and sell from your home kitchen.
Recent Changes & Pending Legislation
In 2022, the Indiana Home-Based Vendor Act updated cottage food regulations, replacing the previous statute. This allows more freedom for home bakers while maintaining food safety and labeling requirements.
What You Can Sell
You can sell a variety of non-hazardous and delightful homemade foods, including:
- Baked Goods: Cookies, cakes (non-refrigerated), brownies, fruit pies, cupcakes, yeast and fruit breads, baguettes, crackers.
- Candies: Caramels, fudge, peanut brittle, chocolate-covered fruits/nuts, bonbons, buckeyes.
- Preserves & Pickles: High-acid jams and jellies, apple butter, and some fermented pickles.
- Others: Wild mushrooms (if recognized as an expert), frozen poultry, rabbit, in-shell eggs, various nuts, honey, molasses, sorghum, maple syrup.
What You Cannot Sell
Some foods are not permitted under the law due to safety concerns:
- Meat Products: Except specific poultry and farm-processed rabbit.
- Dairy & Eggs: Non-baked dairy and egg products, cheesecakes.
- Canned Foods: Salsas, canned vegetables/meats.
- Perishable Foods: Items requiring refrigeration to prevent spoilage.
Sales Limits
Good news! Indiana does not impose a hard cap on the amount you can sell annually, providing endless opportunity for growth.
Where You Can Sell
Your sales are restricted to specific venues:
- Permitted: Farmers markets, roadside stands, online, in-state shipping. If you are selling online, the food product label must be available on your webpage/market website
Licensing & Registration
You'll need an ANSI-certified food handler certificate. Some counties may require you to register, though often without a fee.
Fees
Generally, there are no fees for registration. For example, Porter County offers free registration.
Kitchen Inspections
You're exempt from regular kitchen inspections; however, local authorities may check product labeling or compliance.
Labeling Requirements
All your products must be labeled with:
- Producer’s name and address
- Common name of the food product
- Ingredient list (in descending order)
- Net weight, volume, or item count
- Date processed
- Important Statement: “This product is home produced and processed and the production area has not been inspected by the State Department of Health.” (in at least 10-point font)
Training & Certification
Completing an ANSI-accredited food handler course is required to ensure you understand food safety protocols.
Official Resources
- Indiana Home-Based Vendor Act (HEA 1149)
- Indiana Health Department FAQ
- Further Legislative Details
- LaPorte County Resources
- FDA Safe Food Handling
FAQ
1. Can I sell my baked goods online?
No, Indiana restricts online sales of cottage foods.
2. Are there any specific requirements for selling mushrooms?
Yes, you must be recognized as an expert by the Indiana Department of Health.
3. Do I need a special permit to sell eggs?
Yes, you must be registered with the Indiana State Egg Board.
Embrace your passion and creativity with the knowledge and confidence to succeed as a home-based vendor in Indiana. Dive into your homemade business with clarity and assurance!