Virginia Cottage Food Laws

Quick Facts

Allowed Foods and State Conditions

Low-risk food products including:
Dried herbs.
Dry seasonings.
Dry mixtures.
Coated and uncoated nuts.
Vinegars and flavored vinegars.
Popcorn and popcorn balls.
Cotton candy.
Dried pasta.
Dry baking mixes.
Roasted coffee.
Dried tea.
Cereals.
Trail mixes.
Granola.
Baked goods that do not require time or temperature control after preparation.
Acidified foods including pickles and acidified vegetables with an equilibrium pH of 4.6 or lower, including pickled products, salsa, chow-chow, relishes, and similar vegetables.

Sales Types

Sales as allowed under the applicable Virginia exemption or under a permitted home-based food business.

Getting Started

What You Should Do First

Review the Virginia home kitchen food processing exemptions FAQ and determine whether your products qualify for an exemption or whether you need an inspected and permitted operation before selling.

Common Issues

Virginia is not a broad no-permit cottage food state. Exemption status depends on the food category and current state law.

Reproducibility Note

Initial source-first import using official state source.

Labeling

Virginia labeling requirements depend on whether the product is sold under an exemption or under a permitted operation, and current VDACS guidance should be followed.

Required Label Items

Follow current Virginia exemption guidance or permitted-operation labeling requirements
Include required product and producer information and any disclosures required by VDACS or applicable law

Required Disclaimer

This product was produced in a private home under a Virginia home kitchen food processing exemption or in a permitted home-based food operation, as applicable.

Allergen Statement Required

Varies

Labeling Notes

Virginia requires careful category-by-category review. Start with the exemption FAQ and Code of Virginia references before drafting labels or selling.

Official Source

Example Label