Ohio cottage food laws
A plain-language summary of what Ohio's cottage food law lets home bakers make, where you can sell it, and what the state asks of you. Always confirm the specifics with the official sources linked below.
- License / registration
- Not required
- Where you can sell
- Direct, markets
- Labeling
- Required
What can I sell under Ohio's cottage food law?
Cottage food programs cover foods that are safe at room temperature. In Ohio, that generally includes:
- Non-hazardous baked goods (breads, cookies, brownies, fruit pies)
- Candy, including chocolate and hard candy
- Jams, jellies, and fruit butters
- Dry cereals, granola, and dry mixes
- Popcorn, roasted nuts, and dried herbs
What can't I sell?
Foods that need refrigeration to stay safe are almost always off limits. Common examples that fall outside Ohio's program:
- Refrigerated cakes, cream pies, and custards
- Foods on the state's potentially hazardous list
Do I need a license in Ohio?
No license or registration is required for an Ohio cottage food production operation, but products must come from the state's approved list.
Sales cap: Ohio does not cap annual cottage food sales.
Where can I sell in Ohio?
- Direct to consumers
- Farmers markets and events
- Ohio retail (grocery) stores, per program rules
How do I label cottage foods in Ohio?
Label must include product name, the producer's name and address, ingredients, allergens, net weight, and the statement that the product is home-produced.
Official sources
Last reviewed July 2026.
Not legal advice. This guide is a summary for convenience, not legal advice. Cottage food rules change, and the details here may be out of date. Always confirm the current requirements with Ohio's Ohio Dept. of Agriculture: Cottage Foods before you make or sell anything.
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