Kentucky Cottage Food Law 2026
Last reviewed:
License Required
Limit: $60,000 / Year
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
CottageFoodLicense.com is an informational platform, not a law firm. The information provided by our AI Checker, templates, and guides does not constitute legal advice. Cottage food laws change frequently. You must verify all information with your local health department before selling products.
Allowed
- ✓Baked goods
- ✓Dried fruit
- ✓Candy
- ✓Jams/Jellies
- ✓Granola
- ✓Low-sugar jams (HBM only)
- ✓Acidified/canned foods (HBM only, farmer + UK-approved recipe)
Prohibited
- ✕Meat
- ✕Dairy
- ✕Low-acid canned foods (without HBM)
Labeling Protocols
FAQs
Which agency regulates Kentucky cottage food?
The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Public Health, Food Safety Branch. The Kentucky Department of Agriculture is NOT the regulating agency for the cottage food / home-based processor program.
Do I need to register?
Yes. The Home-Based Processor (HBP) program requires registration with the Food Safety Branch using form DFS-250, $50 annual fee. No kitchen inspection. The Home-Based Microprocessor (HBM) program is separate and requires a UK workshop + recipe approval for farmers selling acidified/canned foods.
Can I ship cottage foods via USPS or UPS?
No. KRS 217.136 does not authorize mail/common-carrier shipping. Online orders must be fulfilled by in-state pickup or personal delivery.
What is the sales cap?
$60,000 gross annual sales for both HBP and HBM.
Can I sell to restaurants or retail stores?
No. HBP sales are direct-to-consumer only. HBM sales are further restricted to the processor's farm, KY-registered farmers' markets, and certified roadside stands.
What Comes Next
After You Verify Compliance: Your Next 4 Steps
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- 01
Liability Shield
Form an LLC
Separating your personal finances from your cottage food business protects your home and savings if a customer ever brings a claim. Both providers below file in all 50 states and handle registered agent service for Kentucky.
- 02
Protect Your Kitchen
Get Product Liability Insurance
A single allergy incident or contamination claim can erase years of profit. FLIP (Food Liability Insurance Program) is built specifically for cottage food operators — flat-rate annual policies with farmers market and online sales coverage included.
- 03
Recommended in Kentucky
Complete Food Safety Training
Kentucky does not mandate food safety training, but completing one builds buyer trust and protects you if a labeling or handling question ever arises. Learn2Serve's online course takes a few hours.
- 04
Production Ready
Set Up Your Kitchen and Labels
The right thermometers, storage containers, scale, and label printer turn a home kitchen into a compliant production space. Our Week 11 equipment guide walks through what we use and the Kentucky-specific labeling fields you'll need.
Official Sources
Verify current requirements directly with the state: