Yes, selling homemade food in Ireland is permitted under strict conditions. The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) regulates this through the European Union (Food for Sale by a Food Business Operator) Regulations 2023, which require compliance with hygiene standards, even for small-scale producers. From 2026, the FSAI will enforce updated micro-enterprise guidelines, tightening oversight on cottage food operations.
Key Regulations for Selling Homemade Food in Ireland
- Registration Requirement: All homemade food businesses must register with the local authority (e.g., HSE or county council) under the Food Hygiene Regulations 2023. Failure to register risks fines up to €5,000.
- Permitted Foods: Only low-risk foods (e.g., baked goods, jams, honey) may be sold without a commercial kitchen. High-risk items (e.g., meat, dairy) require HACCP compliance.
- Labelling Mandates: Products must display the seller’s name/address, allergen information, and the statement “Made in a domestic kitchen” per EU Regulation 1169/2011.