1. What are the labeling requirements for cottage food products in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, cottage food products must meet certain labeling requirements to ensure consumer safety and compliance with regulations. The labeling must include the following information:
1. Product name: The name of the cottage food product should be clearly displayed on the label.
2. Ingredients: A list of ingredients used in the product in descending order of predominance.
3. Allergen information: Any allergens present in the product must be clearly identified.
4. Net weight or volume: The weight or volume of the product should be stated on the label.
5. Name and address: The name and address of the cottage food operation or the cottage food permit holder.
6. Nutrition facts: If any nutritional claims are made, such as “low fat” or “high fiber,” the product must include nutrition facts panel.
7. Statement of production: A statement indicating that the product is homemade and not subject to state inspection.
It’s important for cottage food producers in New Hampshire to ensure that their labels comply with these requirements to avoid any issues or potential fines.
2. Do I need to include nutritional information on my cottage food product labels?
1. In general, cottage food operations are exempt from providing nutritional information on their product labels. This exemption is because cottage food products are typically homemade and produced on a small scale, which makes it challenging to accurately provide detailed nutritional information.
2. However, it is always recommended to provide basic information such as a list of ingredients, potential allergens, the name of the product, the net quantity statement, and your contact information on the label. This helps consumers make informed decisions about their purchases and can also be helpful in case of any allergies or product inquiries.
3. If you choose to provide nutritional information voluntarily, you should ensure that it is accurate and compliant with labeling regulations, including the FDA guidelines for nutrition labeling. Keep in mind that inaccurate or misleading nutritional information can lead to legal issues, so it’s essential to verify the information before including it on your cottage food product labels.
3. Are there specific font size and style requirements for labeling cottage food products in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, there are specific requirements for font size and style when labeling cottage food products. The regulations state that all information on the label must be prominent, legible, and in a conspicuous place. Here are the font size and style requirements:
1. The minimum font size for the statement of identity (product name) and net quantity declaration must be at least 1/16 of an inch in height.
2. The font style must be in a clear, easily readable typeface, such as Arial or Times New Roman.
3. All information on the label must be in a color that provides a clear contrast to the background to ensure readability.
It is important to adhere to these font size and style requirements to ensure that consumers can easily read and understand the information on your cottage food product labels in New Hampshire.
4. Can I use a generic label template for my cottage food products or do I need to create a custom label for each product?
When it comes to labeling cottage food products, it is essential to ensure compliance with regulations and provide consumers with accurate information about the product they are purchasing. While using a generic label template might seem convenient, it is highly recommended to create a custom label for each product to ensure that all necessary information specific to that product is included. Here are a few reasons why custom labels are important for cottage food products:
1. Ingredients: Each cottage food product may have different ingredients or allergens that need to be listed clearly on the label. A custom label allows you to accurately list all the ingredients present in that specific product.
2. Allergens: If your cottage food product contains common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten, it is crucial to highlight these allergens on the label. With a custom label, you can ensure that allergen information is prominently displayed for consumer safety.
3. Quantity: Custom labels allow you to include the correct net weight or quantity of the product, ensuring compliance with packaging requirements.
4. Batch Number: In the case of a product recall or customer inquiry, having a batch number on each custom label can help track and identify specific batches of products.
By creating custom labels for each of your cottage food products, you can provide consumers with transparent and accurate information, comply with labeling regulations, and build trust in your brand.
5. Are there specific language requirements for labeling cottage food products in New Hampshire?
Yes, there are specific language requirements for labeling cottage food products in New Hampshire. When labeling cottage food products in the state, it is mandatory to include certain information on the label, such as the product name, ingredients list (in descending order by weight), allergen information, net weight or volume of the product, the name and address of the cottage food operation, and a statement that indicates the product is homemade and not subject to state inspection. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that all information on the label is truthful, accurate, and not misleading to consumers. By adhering to these language requirements and providing clear and comprehensive labeling, cottage food producers can maintain compliance with New Hampshire regulations and build trust with customers.
6. Do I need to include allergen information on my cottage food product labels?
Yes, it is essential to include allergen information on your cottage food product labels to ensure the safety of consumers with food allergies. Here are some key points to consider regarding allergen labeling for cottage food products:
1. Identify Allergens: List the common food allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish in your ingredient list or separately on the label.
2. Highlight Allergens: Make sure that allergen information is easy to spot on the label, using a contrasting font or color to emphasize the presence of allergens.
3. Cross-Contamination: If your cottage food product is made in a shared facility where allergens are present, include a statement to warn consumers about the potential for cross-contamination.
4. Follow Regulations: Be aware of any specific labeling requirements or regulations in your state regarding allergen labeling for cottage food products, as these may vary.
Overall, providing accurate and clear allergen information on your cottage food product labels is crucial to help consumers make informed choices and prevent allergic reactions.
7. Can I use recycled or eco-friendly packaging for my cottage food products?
Yes, you can definitely use recycled or eco-friendly packaging for your cottage food products. In fact, more and more consumers are looking for sustainable options and appreciate businesses that are environmentally conscious. Here are some tips to consider when using recycled or eco-friendly packaging for your cottage food products:
1. Look for packaging materials that are biodegradable or compostable, such as paperboard, cornstarch-based plastics, or compostable plastics made from plant-based materials.
2. Opt for packaging that is recycled or recyclable to reduce waste and encourage customers to recycle after use.
3. Consider using minimal packaging or packaging that can be reused by customers to further reduce environmental impact.
4. Make sure the recycled or eco-friendly packaging you choose is still safe for food products, as some materials may not be suitable for direct contact with food.
5. Clearly label your packaging with information about its eco-friendly properties to educate customers and highlight your commitment to sustainability.
By choosing recycled or eco-friendly packaging for your cottage food products, you can attract environmentally conscious customers, reduce your environmental footprint, and align your business with sustainable practices.
8. Are there specific requirements for labeling homemade jams and jellies as cottage food products in New Hampshire?
Yes, in New Hampshire, there are specific requirements for labeling homemade jams and jellies as cottage food products. Some key labeling guidelines to adhere to include:
1. Product Name: The label should clearly state the common or usual name of the product, such as “Strawberry Jam” or “Blueberry Jelly.
2. Ingredients: List all ingredients in descending order of predominance by weight. Ensure that any allergens are clearly marked.
3. Net Weight: The net weight or net volume of the product should be displayed on the label.
4. Producer Information: Include the name and address of the cottage food operation producing the jams and jellies.
5. Date of Production: It is recommended to include the date the product was made for freshness and traceability purposes.
6. Allergen Information: Clearly indicate if the product contains any common allergens like nuts, dairy, or gluten.
7. Nutrition Facts: While not always required for cottage food products, providing basic nutrition information can be beneficial for consumers.
By following these labeling guidelines, cottage food producers in New Hampshire can ensure compliance with regulations and provide consumers with the necessary information about their homemade jams and jellies.
9. Can I include health claims or specific benefits on my cottage food product labels?
No, according to labeling and packaging guidelines for cottage food products, it is generally not allowed to include health claims or specific benefits on your product labels. This is to ensure transparency and accuracy in the information provided to consumers. Health claims and specific benefits can often be subjective and may not be backed by scientific evidence, leading to potential misinformation. It is important to focus on providing clear and truthful information about the product, including the ingredients, allergens, and any necessary warnings. If you have any doubts about what can or cannot be included on your cottage food product labels, it is recommended to consult with local health departments or relevant authorities for guidance.
10. What information must be included on the principal display panel of cottage food product labels in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, the principal display panel of cottage food product labels must include several key pieces of information to ensure compliance with packaging guidelines and regulations. These requirements are essential for providing consumers with necessary details about the product they are purchasing. The information that must be included on the principal display panel typically includes:
1. The product name: The name of the cottage food product should be clear and prominent on the label to help consumers easily identify it.
2. The net weight or volume: The weight or volume of the product should be accurately stated on the principal display panel for transparency.
3. The name and address of the cottage food operation: This information helps consumers know where the product was made and allows for easy contact with the producer if needed.
4. Allergen information: Any allergens present in the product, such as nuts or wheat, must be clearly disclosed on the label to ensure consumer safety.
5. Any required nutritional information: Depending on the nature of the cottage food product, certain nutritional information may need to be included on the principal display panel to inform consumers about the product’s content.
By ensuring that these key pieces of information are present on the principal display panel of cottage food product labels in New Hampshire, cottage food producers can comply with packaging guidelines and provide consumers with the necessary information they need to make informed purchasing decisions.
11. Are there restrictions on using certain types of imagery or graphics on cottage food product labels in New Hampshire?
Yes, there are restrictions on using certain types of imagery or graphics on cottage food product labels in New Hampshire. The state has guidelines in place to ensure that labels are truthful, not misleading, and comply with food safety regulations. Here are some key restrictions to keep in mind:
1. Avoid using images or graphics that could be misleading about the ingredients or nature of the product.
2. Do not use images that could imply health benefits or medicinal properties unless approved by the FDA.
3. Steer clear of using images that may appeal primarily to children, as cottage food products are typically not marketed towards them.
4. Make sure to include all required labeling information such as ingredients, allergen information, net weight, and contact information on the label before considering any imagery or graphics.
By adhering to these guidelines, cottage food producers in New Hampshire can ensure that their product labels are compliant and accurately represent their products.
12. Do I need to include a barcode on my cottage food product labels?
No, in general, cottage food products do not require a barcode on their labels. Barcodes are typically used for products that are sold in retail stores or online platforms where inventory tracking is necessary. Cottage food products are usually sold directly to consumers at farmer’s markets, fairs, or through small-scale operations, where barcoding is not a standard requirement. However, if you plan to sell your cottage food products through a larger distribution network or in retail settings, you may need to consider including a barcode on your labels for easier tracking and inventory management. It is important to check with your local health department or regulatory agency to determine if barcoding is necessary for your specific situation.
13. Are there specific labeling requirements for cottage food products sold at farmers markets or other direct-to-consumer outlets in New Hampshire?
Yes, there are specific labeling requirements for cottage food products sold at farmers markets or other direct-to-consumer outlets in New Hampshire. The following guidelines must be followed:
1. All cottage food products must be properly labeled with the following information:
2. The name of the product.
3. The ingredients list, in descending order of predominance by weight.
4. The name and address of the cottage food operation.
5. The net weight or volume of the product.
6. Any allergen information.
7. The statement “Made in a home kitchen that is not subject to state licensing or inspection. This disclaimer is required to inform consumers that the product was made in a home kitchen and has not been inspected by regulatory authorities.
By adhering to these labeling requirements, cottage food producers in New Hampshire can ensure that their products are compliant with state regulations and provide consumers with the necessary information about the products they are purchasing.
14. Can I sell cottage food products online and ship them out of state without additional labeling requirements?
No, you typically cannot sell cottage food products online and ship them out of state without additional labeling requirements. Each state in the United States has its own regulations regarding cottage food production and sales, which may include specific labeling requirements for products that are shipped out of state. Some common labeling requirements for cottage food products include:
1. Allergen information
2. Ingredient list
3. Net weight or volume
4. Name and address of the producer
5. Statement indicating that the product was made in a cottage food operation
Before selling cottage food products online and shipping them out of state, it is important to thoroughly research the regulations in both the state where the products are produced and the states where they will be shipped. Additionally, it is recommended to consult with a food labeling expert or regulatory agency to ensure full compliance with all necessary requirements.
15. Are there specific requirements for labeling cottage food products that are made with organic ingredients in New Hampshire?
Yes, there are specific requirements for labeling cottage food products made with organic ingredients in New Hampshire. If a cottage food product is made with organic ingredients and the producer wants to make an organic claim on the label, they must comply with the USDA National Organic Program regulations. The product must be certified organic by a USDA-accredited certifying agent, and the label must include the certifier’s name and seal. Additionally, the organic ingredients used in the product must be listed in the ingredient list as “organic” and must be listed separately from non-organic ingredients. It is important for cottage food producers in New Hampshire to ensure that they are following all labeling requirements when making organic claims on their products to avoid any potential regulatory issues.
16. Can I include a “packaged on” or “best by” date on my cottage food product labels?
Yes, you can include a “packaged on” or “best by” date on your cottage food product labels. Providing this information is a good practice for both transparency and quality assurance. Here are some guidelines to consider when including these dates on your labels:
1. Accuracy: Ensure that the dates provided are accurate and clearly visible to customers.
2. Packaging Date: The “packaged on” date indicates when the product was made and packaged. This information can help customers in assessing the product’s freshness.
3. Best By Date: The “best by” date specifies the recommended date by which the product should be consumed for optimal quality. It helps customers make informed decisions about the product’s shelf life.
By including these dates on your cottage food product labels, you demonstrate your commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, enhancing trust in your brand.
17. Are there specific requirements for labeling cottage food products that contain CBD or other cannabinoids in New Hampshire?
Yes, there are specific requirements for labeling cottage food products that contain CBD or other cannabinoids in New Hampshire. Here are some key points to consider:
1. Labeling Requirements: In New Hampshire, cottage food products containing CBD or other cannabinoids must comply with the state’s labeling requirements for food products. This includes providing accurate and clear information on the product label such as the product name, ingredients list, net weight, allergen information, and the name and address of the cottage food business.
2. CBD Disclosure: Products containing CBD or other cannabinoids must clearly indicate the presence of these ingredients on the label. This is important to ensure transparency and inform consumers about what they are consuming.
3. Testing and Compliance: Cottage food producers should ensure that their products containing CBD or other cannabinoids meet any testing and compliance requirements set by the state or local regulations. This may include testing for potency, contaminants, or other safety considerations.
4. Disclaimers: It is recommended to include any necessary disclaimers on the label regarding the potential effects of consuming products containing CBD or cannabinoids, as well as any legal restrictions or warnings related to their use.
By following these labeling requirements and guidelines, cottage food producers can ensure that their products containing CBD or other cannabinoids are compliant with regulations in New Hampshire and provide consumers with accurate information about the products they are purchasing.
18. Can I include promotional offers or discounts on my cottage food product labels?
No, it is generally not recommended to include promotional offers or discounts on cottage food product labels. The primary purpose of a label for cottage food products is to provide essential information to consumers about the product, including ingredients, allergens, net weight, and contact information. Promotional offers or discounts could potentially distract from this important information and may not comply with labeling regulations set by the Cottage Food Laws in your state. It is best to keep the label clear, concise, and focused on necessary details to ensure compliance and transparency with consumers. If you wish to offer promotions or discounts, it is advisable to do so through other marketing channels outside of the product label.
19. Is there a state-approved list of approved colors or additives that can be used in cottage food product packaging in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, there is no specific state-approved list of colors or additives for packaging used in cottage food products. However, there are general guidelines that should be followed when labeling and packaging cottage food products in the state:
1. All labels on cottage food products must accurately represent the contents of the product and comply with federal guidelines set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
2. Any colors or additives used in the packaging materials should be food-safe and not transfer any harmful substances to the food product.
3. It is recommended to use packaging materials that are sturdy, clean, and free from any contaminants.
4. Allergen information should be clearly indicated on the packaging if the product contains common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.
5. The packaging should include the name of the cottage food business, the physical address, and a statement indicating that the product was made in a home kitchen that is not subject to routine inspection by the health department.
While there is no specific list of approved colors or additives for packaging in New Hampshire, it is essential to adhere to these guidelines to ensure the safety and transparency of cottage food products.
20. How can I ensure that my cottage food product labels comply with all state regulations and guidelines in New Hampshire?
To ensure that your cottage food product labels comply with all state regulations and guidelines in New Hampshire, you should follow these steps:
1. Familiarize yourself with the specific labeling requirements for cottage food products in New Hampshire. Contact the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services or visit their website to access the relevant information.
2. Include mandatory labeling elements on your product packaging, such as the product name, ingredients list, allergen information, net weight or volume, and your business contact information.
3. Ensure that all information on your labels is accurate, clear, and easily readable.
4. Include any required statements or warnings, such as “Made in a Home Kitchen” or “Not for Resale”.
5. Avoid making any false or misleading claims on your labels to prevent potential legal issues.
6. Consider consulting with a professional or joining local cottage food associations to stay updated on any changes to labeling regulations in New Hampshire.
By following these steps and staying informed about state regulations, you can ensure that your cottage food product labels comply with all guidelines in New Hampshire and maintain a legally compliant product.
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