Is Cottage Food Legal in Indiana? (2026)
Yes. In Indiana, cottage food is legal. Indiana's cottage food law allows individuals to prepare and sell certain non-potentially hazardous foods from their home kitchen without requiring a food establishment license, subject to specific restrictions and labeling requirements..
Key facts
- Status
- Legal
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- Indiana
- Last reviewed
- 2026-02-26
Cottage Food laws in Indiana
The Indiana Cottage Food Law (Indiana Code Title 16, Article 42, Chapter 5-2) permits individuals to produce and sell non-potentially hazardous foods directly to consumers. These foods typically include baked goods (bread, cookies, cakes without cream fillings), jams, jellies, preserves, fruit butters, and certain candies (excluding those with alcohol). The law specifies that these products must be sold directly to the end consumer, meaning sales can occur at farmers' markets, roadside stands, online (with direct pickup or delivery by the producer), or from the producer's home. Sales to grocery stores, restaurants, or other intermediary businesses are generally not allowed under the cottage food exemption. The annual gross sales for cottage food operations are capped, though this cap can change; it's essential to check the latest Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) guidelines for current limits. The foods must be properly labeled with specific information including the producer's name and address, the product name, ingredients in descending order of predominance, net weight or volume, and a clear statement that the food was prepared in a home kitchen not inspected by the ISDH.
Frequently asked questions
Is cottage food legal in Indiana for travelers?
For travelers visiting Indiana, cottage food is currently legal. The Indiana Cottage Food Law (Indiana Code Title 16, Article 42, Chapter 5-2) permits individuals to produce and sell non-potentially hazardous foods directly to consumers. These foods typically include baked goods (bread, cookies, cakes without cream fillings), jams, jellies, preserves, fruit butters, and certain candies (excluding those with alcohol). The law specifies that these products must be sold directly to the end consumer, meaning sales can occur at farmers' markets, roadside stands, online (with direct pickup or delivery by the producer), or from the producer's home. Sales to grocery stores, restaurants, or other intermediary businesses are generally not allowed under the cottage food exemption. The annual gross sales for cottage food operations are capped, though this cap can change; it's essential to check the latest Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) guidelines for current limits. The foods must be properly labeled with specific information including the producer's name and address, the product name, ingredients in descending order of predominance, net weight or volume, and a clear statement that the food was prepared in a home kitchen not inspected by the ISDH.
Do I need a permit for cottage food in Indiana?
Indiana does not specifically require a permit for cottage food, though general regulations apply.
Can I transport cottage food through Indiana?
Transport laws for cottage food in Indiana depend on the specific item and your route. Generally, transport is allowed if you comply with state regulations. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for cottage food violations in Indiana?
Penalties for cottage food violations in Indiana vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.