Tennessee's Food Freedom Act is one of the most permissive laws in the country: no sales cap, no permit, no registration, and no food handler course — and unlike most cottage food laws, it also covers many perishable and time/temperature-controlled foods.
Tennessee's Food Freedom Act is one of the most permissive laws in the country: no sales cap, no permit, no registration, and no food handler course — and unlike most cottage food laws, it also covers many perishable and time/temperature-controlled foods.
No permit or registration required under the Food Freedom Act.
Not required under the Food Freedom Act.
A local business license may still be required.
Not required, and local governments cannot add their own inspection requirement.
Not legal advice — label wording and requirements can change. Do your own research with Tennessee Department of Agriculture before printing labels.
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Yes. Tennessee allows home bakers to sell approved homemade goods directly to consumers under its cottage food rules. Tennessee's Food Freedom Act is one of the most permissive laws in the country: no sales cap, no permit, no registration, and no food handler course — and unlike most cottage food laws, it also covers many perishable and time/temperature-controlled foods.
Typically allowed items include Cookies, brownies, cakes, cupcakes, pies, and pastries — including those with cream, custard, or other perishable fillings, Breads and other baked goods, Candy, fudge, and confections, Jams, jellies, and preserves, Under the Food Freedom Act, most other homemade foods — including many perishable and potentially hazardous items not allowed under typical cottage food laws, and similar non-perishable homemade goods. Foods that require refrigeration, such as cream pies and cheesecakes, are generally not allowed. Always confirm the current list with Tennessee Department of Agriculture.
No permit or registration required under the Food Freedom Act.
Tennessee's cottage food annual sales limit is: No statewide sales limit.