In 2020, a new law significantly impacted the food industry in New Jersey. This legislation, known as the NJ Cottage Food Law, gave home-based food businesses the legal framework to operate. This law, as it pertains to the small, often artisanal, food producers of New Jersey, fundamentally changed the game for many would-be entrepreneurs. This guide is designed to help you understand the key provisions of the New Jersey cottage food law, and answer the question: can I sell food from home in NJ?
The law’s enactment was marked with a resounding yes – selling food from home is now perfectly legal in New Jersey. But there are nuances to consider. This is where the role of a cottage food permit comes in, a fundamental aspect of the NJ cottage food law.
So, what is a cottage food permit? A cottage food permit essentially grants you permission to legally sell ‘cottage foods’, i.e., foods that are typically produced in home kitchens, not commercial ones. Prior to the 2020 law, home-produced food could not be sold legally. However, the cottage food laws NJ have set out changed that.
Understanding the NJ Cottage Food Law Provisions
There are several critical provisions within the NJ cottage food law that potential and current home-based food business owners should be aware of:
1. Permissible Foods: The law details a list of specific foods that qualify as “cottage food products.” These are typically low-risk food items that do not require refrigeration, such as bread, cookies, jams, jellies, and more.
2. Street-Side Selling: This provision of the law addresses the sale of home-made food products and where they can be sold. Street-side selling and deliveries are permitted, which means you have the chance to set up a stand to sell your goods or offer a home delivery service.
3. Permits: Another aspect of cottage food laws New Jersey, revolves around the necessity of acquiring permits. Health department inspections and permits are not required to operate a cottage food business. This is a significant departure from the norms of the food industry.
4. Annual Gross Sales Limit: For businesses operating under the NJ cottage food law, there’s a cap on the amount they can make in gross sales every year. Currently, the limit is $50,000, which allows for a fruitful business while maintaining the small-scale model.
5. Labelling: Labeling is crucial in the New Jersey Cottage Food Law. All products must accurately indicate they’re homemade. The label must include the name and address of the cottage food operator and a clear statement that the food is not inspected by the health department.
Why the NJ Cottage Food Law is Important
The enactment of the New Jersey cottage food law signifies a massive step forward for small food business operators in New Jersey. It not only allows them to make their passion profitable but also benefits the local economy by fostering small businesses.
Whether you are baking cookies, creating your delectable preserves and pickles, or crafting specialty bread, the cottage food laws in NJ provide an avenue for you to share your culinary creations legally and safely with customers.
Lastly, to our would-be entrepreneurs pondering, “can I sell food from home in NJ?” the answer is a resounding yes. However, it’s essential to stay informed about the updated laws and continue to follow the required guidelines: secure the right cottage food permit, follow the labeling and sales stipulations, and most importantly, create high-quality, tasty products. The cottage food law in New Jersey has opened a world of opportunities for food artisans, and it’s up to you to make the most of it.