1. What is a cottage food operation in Oregon?
A cottage food operation in Oregon refers to businesses that produce and sell certain types of non-potentially hazardous foods directly to consumers from home kitchens or at certain venues like farmers’ markets. These foods are considered low risk for foodborne illness and are allowed to be made in a residential kitchen without the need for a commercial kitchen space. Examples of allowed cottage foods in Oregon include baked goods, confectioneries, jams, jellies, and certain types of pickles and acidified foods. To qualify as a cottage food operation in Oregon, producers must adhere to specific labeling requirements, gross annual sales limits, and restrictions on where and how products can be sold. Additionally, cottage food operators in Oregon are typically required to complete a food handler course and obtain the necessary permits and registrations from the Oregon Department of Agriculture.
2. Are cottage food sales allowed at farmers markets in Oregon?
Yes, cottage food sales are allowed at farmers markets in Oregon, as long as the cottage food producer follows the state’s regulations and obtains the necessary permits and licenses. It is important for cottage food producers selling at farmers markets to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, including labeling requirements, food safety standards, and restrictions on the types of products that can be sold. Additionally, some farmers markets may have their own rules and regulations that producers must adhere to in order to sell their cottage food products at that specific market. Overall, while cottage food sales are permitted at farmers markets in Oregon, producers must make sure to stay informed and in compliance with all applicable laws and guidelines to operate legally and safely.
3. What types of foods can be produced and sold as cottage foods in Oregon?
In Oregon, cottage food producers are allowed to sell a variety of homemade goods that are considered non-potentially hazardous foods. Some examples of permissible cottage foods in Oregon include:
1. Baked goods such as bread, cookies, cakes, and pastries.
2. Jams, jellies, and fruit butters.
3. Honey and sweet sorghum.
4. Dry baking mixes.
5. Dried fruits and vegetables.
6. Roasted coffee and dried tea.
7. Candies and confections.
8. Nut mixes and granola.
It is important for cottage food producers in Oregon to familiarize themselves with the specific regulations governing cottage food sales to ensure full compliance with the law. Additionally, labeling requirements and restrictions on where products can be sold should be carefully considered to operate within the legal parameters.
4. Do I need a license to sell cottage foods in Oregon?
Yes, in Oregon, you do need a license to sell cottage foods. Cottage food operations in Oregon fall under the jurisdiction of the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA). To legally sell cottage foods in the state, you must obtain a domestic kitchen license from the ODA. This license ensures that you are compliant with all the necessary regulations and requirements for selling homemade foods from your kitchen. Additionally, there are specific labeling and packaging requirements that must be followed when selling cottage foods in Oregon to ensure consumer safety and transparency. Failure to obtain the proper license and adhere to these regulations can result in fines or penalties. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the specific rules and guidelines set forth by the ODA to operate a legal and successful cottage food business in Oregon.
5. Can I sell my cottage foods online in Oregon?
Yes, you can sell cottage foods online in Oregon, but there are certain restrictions and requirements that you must follow. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Registration: In Oregon, home bakers and cottage food producers are required to register with the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) before selling their products. This registration includes providing details about your products and food safety practices.
2. Allowed Foods: Only certain types of non-potentially hazardous foods are allowed to be sold as cottage foods in Oregon. These typically include baked goods, jams, jellies, and some other items that don’t require refrigeration.
3. Labeling: All cottage food products sold online in Oregon must be properly labeled with specific information, such as the product name, ingredients, allergen information, net weight, and the producer’s contact information.
4. Sales Limitations: There may be limitations on where and how you can sell cottage foods online in Oregon. Some platforms may have their own rules or regulations regarding food sales, so be sure to check with the specific online marketplace you plan to use.
5. Compliance: It’s essential to comply with all state and local regulations regarding cottage food sales in Oregon to ensure that your online sales are legal and safe for consumers.
By following these guidelines and ensuring compliance with all applicable rules and regulations, you can sell your cottage foods online in Oregon in a legal and responsible manner.
6. Are there any labeling requirements for cottage foods in Oregon?
Yes, there are specific labeling requirements for cottage foods in Oregon. When selling cottage foods in the state, the following labeling requirements must be followed:
1. All labels must include the name and address of the cottage food operation where the product was made.
2. The label must also state that the product was made in a home kitchen that is not subject to regulation and inspection by the Oregon Department of Agriculture.
3. The label should include the ingredients used in the product, listed in descending order of predominance by weight.
4. It is important to include a statement that the product was made in a facility that may also process common food allergens.
5. Additionally, the net weight or volume of the product must be displayed on the label.
6. Finally, any nutritional claims or information must meet the requirements set forth by the FDA.
Overall, adhering to these labeling requirements is crucial for cottage food producers in Oregon to ensure compliance with state regulations and provide consumers with important information about the products they are purchasing.
7. Are there any restrictions on where I can sell my cottage foods in Oregon?
Yes, there are restrictions on where cottage food products can be sold in Oregon. Cottage food products can only be sold directly to the consumer at farmers markets, farm stands, roadside stands, fairs, and events where agricultural products are sold. In addition, cottage food products cannot be sold online or through mail order. It is important to ensure that you are selling your cottage foods in compliance with Oregon’s Cottage Food Law to avoid any potential legal issues.
8. Can I sell my cottage foods wholesale in Oregon?
In Oregon, cottage food producers are not allowed to sell their products wholesale. Cottage food laws in Oregon specifically restrict the sale of homemade goods to consumers only, and prohibits the resale or distribution of cottage foods through wholesale channels. This regulation is in place to ensure that cottage food products are sold directly to individual consumers, and not through intermediaries or larger retail outlets. Therefore, if you are a cottage food producer in Oregon, you are limited to selling your products directly to customers at farmers markets, roadside stands, fairs, and other approved venues for direct sales. It is important to adhere to these regulations to avoid any potential fines or penalties for violating the cottage food laws in Oregon.
9. How much can I earn from selling cottage foods in Oregon?
In Oregon, there are specific limitations on how much you can earn from selling cottage foods. As of 2021, the annual gross sales of cottage food products cannot exceed $40,000. This limit is in place to ensure that cottage food operations remain small-scale and do not pose a significant food safety risk to consumers. It’s important to keep detailed records of your sales to ensure compliance with this restriction. If you exceed the $40,000 limit, you may need to either transition to a commercial food establishment or explore other avenues for selling your products legally in Oregon. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the cottage food laws and regulations in your state to operate your business within the legal boundaries.
10. Are there any food safety training requirements for cottage food producers in Oregon?
Yes, there are food safety training requirements for cottage food producers in Oregon. Individuals who operate under the Oregon Cottage Food Law are required to complete a food safety course that covers topics such as proper hygiene practices, safe food handling procedures, and how to prevent cross-contamination. This training is important to ensure that cottage food products are prepared and packaged in a safe manner to protect consumer health. By completing a food safety course, cottage food producers can demonstrate their understanding of best practices in food safety and help prevent the risk of foodborne illnesses associated with homemade goods.
11. Are there any restrictions on using commercial kitchens for cottage food production in Oregon?
In Oregon, cottage food producers are generally required to prepare their goods in a private kitchen that is used for domestic purposes, and not for any commercial food production. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule which allow cottage food producers to use commercial kitchens for their operations. These exceptions include:
1. Temporary Events: Cottage food producers are permitted to use commercial kitchens on a temporary basis for the purpose of preparing goods to be sold at special events such as farmers markets or craft fairs.
2. Shared Kitchens: Cottage food producers may also use shared commercial kitchens that are certified and inspected for food safety, as long as they meet the necessary requirements and obtain the appropriate permits.
It is important for cottage food producers in Oregon to familiarize themselves with the specific regulations and requirements related to using commercial kitchens for their operations in order to ensure compliance with the law.
12. Can I hire employees to help with my cottage food business in Oregon?
In Oregon, cottage food operations are typically limited to the individual who owns and operates the business. Hiring employees to assist with a cottage food business may not be permissible under the state’s cottage food laws and regulations. Cottage food operations are often required to be run by the individual producer in order to maintain the exemption from certain food establishment regulations.
It is important to carefully review the specific regulations outlined by the Oregon Department of Agriculture or local health department to determine if hiring employees is allowed for cottage food businesses in your specific area. Additionally, if you are considering expanding your operations and hiring employees, you may need to consider transitioning to a commercial food establishment that complies with all relevant food safety regulations.
13. Are there any restrictions on advertising cottage foods in Oregon?
Yes, there are restrictions on advertising cottage foods in Oregon. Specifically:
1. Cottage food producers in Oregon are required to include specific labeling information on all products being advertised for sale. This includes the name and address of the cottage food operation, the name of the cottage food product, the ingredients used in the product, and a statement that the product was made in a home kitchen that is not subject to state licensure or inspection.
2. Additionally, advertising of cottage foods must not be false or misleading. Producers must accurately represent the products they are selling and avoid making any deceptive claims about the health benefits or safety of their products.
3. It is important for cottage food producers in Oregon to familiarize themselves with these advertising restrictions to ensure compliance with state regulations and to maintain the integrity of their business operations. Failure to adhere to these restrictions could result in penalties or fines, so it is crucial to follow the guidelines set forth by the Oregon Department of Agriculture.
14. Can I sell my cottage foods at events like fairs and festivals in Oregon?
Yes, in Oregon, cottage food producers are allowed to sell their products at events like fairs and festivals, provided certain conditions are met. These conditions include:
1. Ensuring that the food items being sold are approved under the state’s cottage food law.
2. Displaying the proper food labels on all products being sold, as per the state’s regulations.
3. Adhering to any specific event guidelines or requirements set by the organizers.
4. Obtaining any necessary permits or licenses required for selling at events.
It is essential for cottage food producers to familiarize themselves with the specific regulations and requirements in Oregon regarding the sale of cottage foods at events to ensure compliance and avoid any penalties. Always make sure to check with the local health department or relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information on selling cottage foods at events in Oregon.
15. Are there any restrictions on the types of ingredients I can use in my cottage foods in Oregon?
In Oregon, there are certain restrictions on the types of ingredients that can be used in cottage foods. These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and quality of the products being sold. Some of the key points to consider regarding ingredient restrictions in Oregon’s cottage food sales include:
1. Prohibited ingredients: Certain ingredients are generally prohibited in cottage foods, such as raw or unpasteurized dairy products, meat products, and products containing alcohol above a certain percentage.
2. Allergen disclosure: Cottage food producers in Oregon are required to disclose the presence of major food allergens in their products, including but not limited to milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish.
3. Food safety considerations: Ingredients must be sourced from approved suppliers and stored, handled, and processed in a manner that minimizes the risk of contamination or foodborne illness.
4. Labeling requirements: Proper labeling of cottage food products is essential in Oregon, including listing all ingredients in descending order of predominance by weight and including a statement that the product was made in a home kitchen that has not been inspected by the regulatory authority.
5. Recipe approval: In some cases, cottage food producers may need to submit their recipes for review and approval by the Oregon Department of Agriculture to ensure compliance with state regulations.
Overall, it is essential for cottage food producers in Oregon to be familiar with and adhere to these ingredient restrictions to operate legally and safely within the state’s cottage food laws.
16. Can I ship my cottage foods to customers outside of Oregon?
No, you cannot ship your cottage foods to customers outside of Oregon if you are operating under the state’s Cottage Food Laws. Cottage food laws typically restrict the sale of homemade goods to within the state where they are produced. Shipping cottage foods across state lines is subject to federal regulations and could require additional permits, licenses, and inspections that may not be feasible for a cottage food operation. Violating these restrictions may result in fines or other legal consequences. It is important to carefully review and comply with the specific regulations governing cottage food sales in your state to ensure legal operation of your business.
17. Are there any restrictions on selling homemade beverages as cottage foods in Oregon?
Yes, there are restrictions on selling homemade beverages as cottage foods in Oregon. Specifically, the state prohibits the sale of alcoholic beverages as part of cottage food operations. Homemade beverages that contain alcohol cannot be sold under the cottage food law in Oregon. Additionally, certain types of beverages may require specific permits or licenses from the Oregon Liquor Control Commission or other regulatory bodies. It’s important for cottage food producers in Oregon to familiarize themselves with all relevant regulations and restrictions before selling homemade beverages to ensure compliance with the law.
18. Are there any limitations on the volume of sales for cottage food operations in Oregon?
Yes, in Oregon, there are limitations on the volume of sales for cottage food operations. Under Oregon’s cottage food law, individuals are allowed to sell homemade, shelf-stable food products directly to consumers without needing a license or permit, but there are specific restrictions on the annual gross sales. Currently, cottage food operators in Oregon can only generate up to $20,000 in gross annual sales from their homemade products. Once a cottage food operation exceeds this annual sales threshold, they must transition to a commercial food processing license and operate out of a licensed commercial kitchen to continue selling their products legally. It is essential for cottage food producers in Oregon to keep detailed records of their sales to ensure compliance with the state’s sales limitations and regulations.
19. Can I offer samples of my cottage foods to customers in Oregon?
In Oregon, cottage food producers are allowed to offer samples of their products to customers, but there are some restrictions and regulations that must be followed. These include:
1. Samples must be pre-packaged and labeled with the product name, ingredients, allergen information, and the name and address of the cottage food operation.
2. Samples must be distributed in a sanitary manner to prevent contamination.
3. Cottage food producers may need to obtain a temporary food establishment permit in order to offer samples at events or farmers markets.
4. It is recommended to check with the Oregon Department of Agriculture or local health department for specific guidelines and requirements related to offering samples of cottage foods to customers.
20. Are there any specific zoning requirements for operating a cottage food business in Oregon?
Yes, in Oregon, there are specific zoning requirements for operating a cottage food business. These requirements may vary depending on the county or municipality in which the business is located. Some common zoning restrictions might include limitations on the types of food that can be produced, the scale of production, signage regulations, and restrictions on operating a business out of a residential property. It is important for cottage food producers in Oregon to check with their local zoning department or planning commission to ensure they are in compliance with all relevant regulations before starting their business.
1. Cottage food businesses may be limited to operating in certain zoning districts, such as residential or agricultural zones.
2. Some areas may have restrictions on the amount of traffic or noise that can be generated by the business.
3. Home-based businesses may need to obtain a home occupation permit to operate legally in certain zoning districts.
4. Zoning requirements may also dictate where certain activities, such as food preparation or packaging, can take place within the property.
5. It is essential to research and adhere to all zoning regulations to avoid any potential legal issues or fines related to operating a cottage food business in Oregon.
English 
Spanish