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Alabama Cottage Food Laws
ALQuick Summary
Home-based food sales allowed with permits and basic labeling requirements.
Summary
Alabama allows certain non-potentially hazardous foods to be produced in a home kitchen and sold directly to consumers within the state, subject to the cottage food law requirements.
Quick Facts
General Allowed Food Definition
Foods that do not require refrigeration and are considered shelf-stable under normal conditions.
Foods that are not time or temperature controlled for safety (non-TCS foods).
Examples typically include baked goods, candies, dry goods, and similar shelf-stable products.
Review the official state source for the exact definition, restrictions, and excluded foods.
Sales Types
Direct to consumers in person, by phone, or online within Alabama.
Getting Started
What You Should Do First
Review the Alabama cottage food guidance, confirm your product qualifies, complete any required food safety training, and prepare product labels before selling.
Common Issues
Alabama cottage food sales are limited to direct-to-consumer sales. Local sales tax, city, or county business requirements may still apply.
Reproducibility Note
Initial source-first import using official state source.
Labeling
Alabama requires labeling and cottage food operators must follow the state cottage food law requirements.
Required Label Items
Product label for review by local health department as required by state guidance
Required cottage food statement
Other required product information as applicable under state and federal law
Required Disclaimer
This food is not inspected by the health department.
Allergen Statement Required
Varies
Labeling Notes
Use the state and local health department guidance when preparing labels.
Official Source
Example Label
Source: Alabama Department of Public Health – Cottage Food Law Information
Last Reviewed: 2026-04-18 00:06:18
Source Checked: 2026-04-18 00:06:18
