WA State Cottage Food Information

Are you interested in starting a home-based food business in Washington State? Understanding the cottage food laws is crucial for your success. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of Washington State’s cottage food laws, including what foods are allowed and prohibited, licensing requirements, business registration procedures, labeling regulations, and important resources for further information. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned baker, this guide will help you navigate the legal requirements and set up your cottage food business for success. Let’s get started!

1. What Food is Allowed and What’s Not:

• Allowed Foods:
  • Low-risk baked or fried goods like bread and biscuits.
  • Cakes, sweet breads.
  • Glazes or frostings not at risk for spoilage.
  • Cereals, granola, and trail mix.
  • Baked pies (except custards).
  • Fried foods like donuts or kale chips.
  • Candies, fudges, nut brittles, or taffies requiring cooking.
  • Jellies, preserves, and jams meeting FDA standards.
  • Roasted nuts and coffee beans.
• Prohibited Foods:
  • Fresh or dried meat.
  • Canned pickled foods.
  • Refrigeration-required baked goods.
  • Milk or dairy items.
  • Freshly cut fruits or vegetables.
  • Beverages, ice, or ice-made products.
  • Non-human consumption items.

2. Licensing Requirements:

• Cottage Food Permit:
  • Two classes: Class A (direct sales) and Class B (indirect sales).
  • Individual businesses have a $25,000 gross sales limit.
  • Permit issued by local health agencies.
  • 2015 amendment clarified product types.

3. Business Registration Requirements:

• General Business Requirements:
  • State, county, and local government paperwork.
  • Washington state business license.
  • Taxes and fees to federal and state Departments of Revenue.
• Food Worker Card:
  • Food safety training required.
  • Course and exam administered by State of Washington.
  • Card issued after passing.

4. Labeling Requirements:

• Label Information:
  • 2020 amendment replaced the address requirement with the permit number.
  • Labels must follow commercial kitchen requirements.
  • No-contact delivery or mailing allowed due to COVID-19.

5. Links to Important Resources:

• • Washington Cottage Food Laws
  • Washington State Department of Agriculture – Cottage Food Operations
  • Allowed and Prohibited Foods in Washington
  • Local Health Agencies in Washington
  • Washington State Food Processors