National Young Farmers Coalition States Expanding Cottage Food Laws
National Young Farmers Coalition States Expanding Cottage Food Laws from www.youngfarmers.org

What is Cottage Food Law?

Cottage Food Law refers to a set of regulations that allow individuals to produce certain types of food items in their home kitchens for sale. The purpose of the law is to promote entrepreneurship and small business growth by providing an opportunity for individuals to start a food business from home.

Wisconsin's Cottage Food Law in 2023

In 2023, Wisconsin's Cottage Food Law has undergone some changes. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has revised its rules to make it easier for individuals to start a home-based food business. The new rules expand the list of food items that can be produced and sold under the Cottage Food Law.

What Food Items Can be Produced and Sold?

Under the new rules in 2023, Wisconsin residents can produce and sell the following food items under the Cottage Food Law:
  • Baked goods, including bread, cookies, cakes, and pies
  • Confectionery items, including candy and chocolate
  • Jams, jellies, and preserves
  • Dried herbs and spices
  • Fruit butters
  • Snack items, including popcorn and granola
  • Coffee and tea blends

What are the Requirements?

To start a home-based food business under the Cottage Food Law, individuals must follow certain requirements, including:
  • Registering with DATCP and obtaining a food processing license
  • Using only approved recipes and ingredients
  • Displaying a label on the food item that includes the producer's name, address, and contact information
  • Limiting annual sales to $25,000 or less

Benefits of Cottage Food Law

Cottage Food Law provides several benefits to individuals who want to start a home-based food business, including:
  • Low start-up costs
  • Flexibility in working hours
  • Opportunities to test the market and grow the business
  • Ability to sell directly to consumers

Challenges of Cottage Food Law

While Cottage Food Law provides opportunities for individuals to start a home-based food business, there are also some challenges, including:
  • Meeting the requirements and regulations set by DATCP
  • Competing with established food businesses
  • Managing food safety risks
  • Building a customer base

Conclusion

In conclusion, Wisconsin's Cottage Food Law has undergone some changes in 2023, making it easier for individuals to start a home-based food business. While there are certain requirements and challenges, Cottage Food Law provides an opportunity for individuals to pursue their passion and start a small business from home.