Tennessee cottage food laws
A plain-language summary of what Tennessee'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, online
- Labeling
- Required
What can I sell under Tennessee's cottage food law?
Cottage food programs cover foods that are safe at room temperature. In Tennessee, that generally includes:
- Non-hazardous baked goods (breads, cakes, cookies)
- Candy and confections
- Jams, jellies, and preserves
- Dried herbs, spice mixes, and dry baking mixes
- Granola, popcorn, and roasted nuts
What can't I sell?
Foods that need refrigeration to stay safe are almost always off limits. Common examples that fall outside Tennessee's program:
- Refrigerated, cream-, or custard-based baked goods
- Low-acid canned goods and fresh salsas
Do I need a license in Tennessee?
No permit, license, or inspection is required for a Tennessee domestic kitchen selling non-hazardous foods.
Sales cap: Tennessee does not cap annual cottage food (domestic kitchen) sales.
Where can I sell in Tennessee?
- Direct to consumers
- Farmers markets, fairs, and events
- Online and mail order, per current program guidance
How do I label cottage foods in Tennessee?
Label must include product name, the producer's name and address, ingredients, allergens, net weight, and a statement that the food was made in a home kitchen not inspected by the Department of Agriculture.
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 Cottage food rules change, and the details here may be out of date.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 Tennessee's Tennessee Dept. of Agriculture: Cottage Foods before you make or sell anything.
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