Selling homemade food can be a rewarding venture. In Washington State, the Cottage Food Law allows individuals to prepare and sell certain food items from their home kitchens. However, this law comes with specific restrictions to ensure food safety. This guide outlines common questions about the Cottage Food License in Washington, clarifying what you can and cannot sell under this license.
What Foods Are Allowed Under a Cottage Food License?
The Cottage Food Law permits the sale of low-risk foods that do not require refrigeration. Examples include:
- Baked goods: Cookies, brownies, cakes, breads, muffins (without fresh fruit or vegetable decorations).
- Candies: Hard candies, lollipops (made with a stovetop or microwave and monitored with a candy thermometer).
- Jams and Jellies: Must meet FDA standards for fruit butters, jellies, and preserves. Low-sugar jams are not permitted.
- Fruit Butters: Must meet FDA standards.
- Dry Bread Mixes: Permitted if all requirements are met.
- Roasted Coffee Beans: Non-commercial size roasters that fit on a kitchen countertop are allowed.
- Freeze-Dried Foods: Only allowable cottage food products can be freeze-dried. Freeze-drying fresh produce is not permitted.
What Foods Are Prohibited Under a Cottage Food License?
High-risk foods requiring refrigeration or specific processing methods are prohibited. Examples include:
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Refrigerated Foods: Any food requiring refrigeration after preparation is not allowed. This includes custard pies, pumpkin pies, pies with unbaked fresh fruit, and certain other baked goods.
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Home-Canned Foods: Salsa, pickles, and other home-canned products are not permitted. These are considered potentially hazardous foods.
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Acidified Foods: Ketchup, barbecue sauce, mustard, and other acidified foods require specific pH control and processing not feasible under a cottage food license.
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Low-Sugar Jams: Do not meet FDA standards for fruit preserves.
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Dehydrated Meat and Poultry: Considered potentially hazardous foods.
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Pet Treats: The Cottage Food Law applies only to human-grade food.
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Raw Milk Products: Raw milk, raw milk cheese, and products made with raw milk or cream are not allowed due to the risk of foodborne illness. This includes baked goods made with raw milk. Only pasteurized dairy is permitted.
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Alcoholic Beverages: Homebrewed beer, cider, and other alcoholic beverages are not covered under the Cottage Food Law.
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Apple Cider: Not considered an allowable food product. Beverages are generally prohibited.
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Syrups: Simple syrup and other syrups are not permitted.
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Dehydrated Foods Using Low Temperatures: Must meet the requirement of a proper cook step.
Adding New Products to Your Cottage Food License
If you want to expand your product offerings, you must submit an addendum to your existing permit and pay additional fees. This includes a new application processing fee and a public health review fee. An inspection fee may also be required.
Key Considerations for Cottage Food Operations
- Product Restrictions: Always refer to the official Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) resources for the most up-to-date list of allowed and prohibited foods.
- Licensing and Fees: Understand the application process, fees, and requirements for obtaining and maintaining a Cottage Food License.
- Food Safety: Adhere to strict food safety practices to prevent foodborne illness.
Conclusion
The Cottage Food Law in Washington provides an avenue for small-scale food entrepreneurs. By understanding the specific requirements and restrictions, you can operate a successful and legal cottage food business. Always consult the official WSDA resources for the most accurate and current information. This guide is for informational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.
