Last verified 2026-09-15. Regulator: Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. This page is not legal advice.
What must a cottage food label show in Idaho?
A Idaho cottage food label must show these 4 items:
- The statement: "This product is not subject to government food safety inspection or licensing requirements. It may contain allergens."
- The name and contact information of the producer
- A list of ingredients used in the product, if the product contains two or more ingredients
- For perishable food, handling instructions that tell the consumer how to store and prepare the product safely
What disclaimer must a Idaho cottage food label have?
Yes. A Idaho cottage food label must carry this statement, word for word:
This product is not subject to government food safety inspection or licensing requirements. It may contain allergens.
Does Idaho require a Nutrition Facts panel on cottage food?
No. Idaho does not require a Nutrition Facts panel on cottage food. Federal rules also exempt most small producers, unless the label makes a nutrient or health claim. If you want to add one, the Nutrition Label Maker prints it in the FDA layout for free.
What foods can you sell under the Idaho cottage food law?
Homemade shelf-stable food and perishable food. Shelf-stable examples are hermetically sealed jams, jellies and syrups, fermented foods, fruit pies, candies, nut mixes, granola, dry soup mixes, popcorn, honey, dried and freeze-dried foods, and baked goods without perishable frosting or filling. Perishable examples are nonalcoholic drinks, sauces, nut butters, fresh pasta, raw dough, refrigerated jams and butters, baked goods with perishable frosting or filling, cooked vegetables, and pickled products. Milk, dairy, raw milk, and meat are allowed only under the extra conditions in the statute.
Where can you sell cottage food in Idaho?
Direct from the producer, or a designated agent named in writing, to an informed end consumer. Every step from production to delivery must take place inside Idaho. Farm stands are allowed. Wholesale, resale, and use as an ingredient in a licensed food establishment are not allowed.
Do you need a permit to sell cottage food in Idaho?
No license, permit, or inspection. The producer must keep sale and production records for at least two years and show them only in a confirmed foodborne illness investigation.
Is there a sales limit for cottage food in Idaho?
None. The statute sets no sales limit.
What else should you know about the Idaho rules?
Idaho replaced its cottage food rule on March 20, 2026. The Idaho Direct-to-Consumer Commerce Act now covers homemade food. The required notice can go on a label, a sign at the sales location, or a card given to the buyer. Perishable food is allowed but must carry handling instructions and stay at safe temperatures. A retail space that also sells other food must keep these products on separate shelves with clear signs. Local governments cannot add stricter labeling or permit rules.
How accurate is this page?
The label items, the sales channels, the record rule, and the food lists were read from Idaho Code sections 37-203, 37-205, and 37-208 on 2026-09-15. The change date and the agency guidance were read from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare food safety page the same day. The old IDAPA 16.02.19 exemption was read but is now superseded. The University of Idaho Extension guide was not read.