Idaho Cottage Food Sales Exempt from Licensing

Idaho is one of the most permissive cottage food states in the nation. The Idaho Food Code, administered through Idaho Department of Health and Welfare and the seven public health districts, exempts cottage food operations from licensing or inspection requirements. Allowed products include baked goods that do not require refrigeration, jams, jellies, honey, dried herbs, candies, popcorn, granola, and similar non-time/temperature-control-for-safety foods. There is no annual sales cap. Producers may sell direct to Idaho-based consumers at farmers markets, roadside stands, special events, online, or via mail order. Products must be labeled with the producer's name, address, ingredients, allergen disclosure, and a statement that the food was prepared in a home kitchen not subject to regulation and inspection.

Selling time/temperature-control foods, low-acid canned goods, or unlabeled cottage products may trigger health district enforcement and require commercial licensing.