Cottage Food Label Rules: What Goes on the Label

Cottage food label rules are set by each state, and they differ a lot. Most states do not require a Nutrition Facts panel on cottage food, but nearly all require a basic label. Check your own state's rules before you sell anything.

Who sets cottage food label rules?

Each state sets its own cottage food law, usually through its department of agriculture or health. The FDA does not write a single national cottage food rule.

That means what is allowed in one state may be banned in the next. Limits on sales channels, annual sales and which foods qualify also vary. Find your state's current rules on its agency website, or ask the agency directly. This guide covers common patterns, not your state's law.

What goes on a cottage food label?

Most states ask for the same handful of items. Your state may add to this list or drop an item, so treat it as a starting checklist.

• The product name, in plain words.
• Your name, and often your address or a permit or registration number, where the state requires it.
• An ingredient list, in descending order by weight.
• The major food allergens, clearly shown.
• The net quantity, as weight or volume.
• Any statement your state requires, such as a note that the food was made in a home kitchen that is not inspected.

Some states also ask for a date or batch information. Some want specific wording and type size for the home kitchen statement. Read the exact text your state requires.

How should you list ingredients and allergens?

List every ingredient in order from the largest amount by weight to the smallest. Name each one as a customer would understand it, such as "wheat flour" and "butter (milk)".

US federal law names nine major allergens: milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans and sesame. Show them clearly, either in the ingredient list or in a "Contains" line. Remember sub-ingredients too. A chocolate chip can bring in soy.

Do cottage food products need a Nutrition Facts panel?

Usually not, but you must check your state. Many state cottage food laws do not require a panel, and many small sellers also fall under a federal exemption. Our small business exemptions guide explains that federal side.

The panel becomes required in several cases:

• You make a nutrient content claim, such as "low fat" or "high fiber".
• You make a health claim on the package.
• You sell beyond what the cottage food law allows, for example wholesale to stores or online across state lines, where your state or the FDA applies other rules.
• A buyer, such as a store or market, asks for one as a condition of sale.

If any of these apply, you need a panel. Use a tool such as our nutrition facts label generator, and read how the values are built on the method page.

What happens if you make a nutrient claim?

A claim usually removes the exemption and triggers the full panel. Words like "sugar free", "low sodium" or "good source of protein" count as nutrient content claims under federal rules.

The FDA defines when you may use each term, with set limits per serving. Even a claim that feels harmless, like "healthy" or "keto", may carry rules. If you are unsure, remove the word or ask your state agency or the FDA.

Does the label differ for farmers markets, online and wholesale?

Often yes, because the sales channel decides which rules apply. Many states allow cottage food sales only direct to consumers, such as at a market or from home. Online orders, shipping and wholesale to stores may be restricted or need a different license.

If you move beyond direct sales, you may move out of the cottage food law altogether. Then you follow standard food labeling rules, which can include the panel. Confirm each sales channel with your state agency before you start.

A simple pre-sale checklist

1. Read your state's cottage food rules on its official agency page.
2. Confirm which foods and which sales channels are allowed.
3. Draft the label with every item your state requires.
4. Check ingredients and allergens against your actual recipe and supplier labels.
5. Decide whether you make any claim. If yes, plan for a Nutrition Facts panel.
6. Review the FDA rounding rules and the label formats if you add a panel.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Laws change, so confirm with your state agency before printing.