Yes, selling homemade food is legal in Georgia under specific conditions outlined by the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) and local county health departments. The Georgia Cottage Food Law permits sales of non-perishable, low-risk foods without a commercial kitchen license, but compliance with labeling and sales restrictions is mandatory.
Key Regulations for Selling Homemade Food in Georgia
- Permitted Foods Only: Only non-perishable items like baked goods, jams, and dried herbs qualify under the Cottage Food Law. Perishable foods (e.g., dairy, meat, or refrigerated items) require a licensed commercial kitchen.
- Labeling Requirements: Products must include the producer’s name/address, ingredients, allergens, net weight/volume, and the statement: “Made in a Cottage Food Operation That Is Not Subject to Georgia’s Food Safety Regulations.”
- Sales Restrictions: Direct-to-consumer sales are allowed at farmers’ markets, online, or from home, but wholesale distribution to retailers or restaurants is prohibited. Local health departments may impose additional county-specific rules.
Local jurisdictions, such as Fulton or Cobb County, may enforce stricter interpretations of state law. The DPH’s 2026 guidance emphasizes stricter enforcement of labeling accuracy and allergen disclosures, particularly for home-based producers near urban centers. Violations risk fines or mandatory commercial kitchen compliance. Consult the Georgia DPH Cottage Food Guidelines for updates before commencing operations.