Yes, selling homemade food is legal in Indiana under specific conditions outlined by the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) and the Indiana Department of Agriculture (IDA). Indiana’s Cottage Food Law permits the sale of non-perishable foods without a commercial kitchen license, provided vendors comply with labeling and sales restrictions. However, perishable items or those requiring refrigeration remain prohibited unless produced in a licensed facility. Local health departments may impose additional rules, and vendors must stay informed about evolving 2026 compliance requirements, particularly regarding online sales and allergen disclosures.
Key Regulations for Selling Homemade Food in Indiana
- Permitted Foods: Only non-potentially hazardous foods (e.g., baked goods, jams, granola, candy) may be sold under the Cottage Food Law. Perishable items like custards, cream pies, or meat products are explicitly banned unless prepared in a licensed kitchen.
- Labeling Requirements: All products must include the business name, address, ingredients (with allergens highlighted), net weight/volume, and a statement: “This product is home-produced and not subject to state inspection.” Labels must be legible and affixed to each package.
- Sales Restrictions: Cottage foods may only be sold directly to consumers at farmers’ markets, roadside stands, or online (with delivery limited to non-perishable items). Wholesale distribution to stores or restaurants is prohibited unless the vendor operates under a separate commercial license.