Guadalupe County, TX Home Business: Cottage Food Operations (2026)

Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 437 defines a cottage food production operation as an individual making approved foods at home, expanded by HB 970 (2013), HB 1926 (2019), and SB 541 (2025). Permitted items are non-time/temperature-control foods such as baked goods, candy, jams, dried herbs, and roasted coffee, sold directly to consumers, by mail, or through cottage food retailers. No county or city health permit or inspection is required, and no local government may impose a license or fee. Each package must show the producer's name and address, an ingredient list, allergen disclosure, and a statement that the food is made in a home not inspected by a health authority. The maker must hold a food handler certificate.