Rhode Island Cottage Food Limited Statewide Licensing Framework

Rhode Island historically had one of the most restrictive home food laws in the country. Under RIGL Chapter 21-27 (Sanitation in Food Establishments) and the cottage food provisions enacted under RIGL 21-27-6.1 and related amendments, certain non-potentially-hazardous foods may be produced in residential kitchens after registration with the Department of Health or, for farm-based products, the Department of Environmental Management. Producers must follow statewide labeling, ingredient, and sales-channel rules. Local boards of health enforce but cannot impose conflicting standards on covered cottage food products.

Operating without proper registration or beyond allowed product categories can result in cease-and-desist orders, embargo of food, and fines under RIGL 21-27-11.