The Blueprint
BUILDING Blocks
The strategic roadmap to launching a compliant, profitable home-based culinary enterprise.
Define The Scope
'Cottage Food' is a legal term for low-risk foods made in a home kitchen. Before investing, understand that this model excludes most items requiring refrigeration (cheesecakes, custards). It is built for shelf-stable mastery: breads, jams, dry goods.
Analyze Jurisdiction
Regulations are hyper-local. Some states offer unlimited revenue potential; others cap you at $25k. Some require inspections; others are registration-only. Knowing your specific constraints is the foundation of your business model.
View State DataCompliance & Labeling
Transparency is your currency. Your labels must explicitly state the product is homemade and uninspected. Failure to adhere to font sizes, ingredient listings, and allergen declarations is the fastest way to get shut down.
Download TemplatesMarket Entry
With compliance secured, focus on distribution. The cottage model thrives on direct-to-consumer channels: Farmers markets, porch pop-ups, and hyper-local subscription boxes. Build a brand that looks bigger than your kitchen.