Cottage Food Laws in Kentucky

Can You Sell Food and Beverage out of Your Home in Kentucky?

Yes, you can sell food and beverages out of your home in Kentucky, provided you obtain a cottage food license and meet other requirements for food safety and labeling. The Kentucky Department of Agriculture has specific requirements for those selling food and beverages to the public, including obtaining a cottage food license, registering with the health department, and displaying appropriate signage.

What is the Cottage Food Law in Kentucky?

The Cottage Food Law in Kentucky is a law which allows individuals to produce and sell certain types of non-potentially hazardous foods from their own home. Such foods may include baked goods, candy, jams and jellies, fruit butters, popcorn, honey, dry mixes, and roasted nuts. It is important to keep in mind that an individual must obtain a cottage food license and comply with all regulations in order to legally participate in this program.

What is Required on a Cottage Food Label in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, all cottage food products must be labeled with the following information:

1. Name and address of the cottage food operator.
2. Ingredients listed in descending order by ingedient weight or volume.
3. Common name of the food.
4. Any major food allergens contained in the food product.
5. Net weight or volume of the product.
6. Date of production or “best by” date.
7. The words “Kentucky cottage food product”.

Are Cottage Foods Taxable in Kentucky?

Yes, cottage food products in Kentucky are subject to the state’s sales and use tax.

Do You Need to Establish a Business Entity to Sell Cottage Foods in Kentucky?

No, you do not need to establish a business entity to sell cottage foods in Kentucky. You must register with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and comply with certain labeling requirements, but no formal business structure is required.

What Permits do You Need to Sell Food out of Your Home in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, if you plan to sell food out of your home you will need to obtain a food permit from the Kentucky Department of Public Health. The specific type of permit and associated fees will depend on the type of food, facility, and business that you are operating. Additionally, you may need to obtain a permit from your local health department, a business license, and zoning approval in order to legally operate.

Does a Cottage Food Business Need a Food Handlers License in Kentucky?

No, a cottage food business does not need a food handlers license in Kentucky. However, cottage food operators must register their business with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and adhere to the rules and regulations set forth in the Kentucky Cottage Food Law.

How Much does it Cost to Obtain a Food Safety License or Certification in Kentucky?

The cost of food safety licenses or certifications in Kentucky vary depending on the food service facility. The cost can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the type of license or certification and the scope of the food service operation. For more information about licensing and certification requirements for food service establishments in Kentucky, contact the Kentucky Department of Public Health at (502) 564-1548.

Who Regulates Food Safety in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, food safety is regulated by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and the Kentucky Department for Public Health. The Food Safety Branch of the Department of Agriculture is responsible for inspecting food establishments, investigating complaints, enforcing food safety regulations, and conducting educational programs for the food industry. The Department for Public Health oversees public health laws, including those related to food safety.

How Long Does a Food Handlers License Last in Kentucky?

A valid Kentucky food handlers license does not expire and remains valid for the life of an employee.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Truck in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, you will need to obtain a Kentucky Food Handler Certificate, a Kentucky Food Truck Mobile Vendor Registration Permit, a Kentucky Retail Food Establishment Permit, and a business license from the city or county in which you plan to operate. You will also need to comply with any other local licensing requirements as mandated by the locality in which your food truck operates. Lastly, you may need additional permits if you plan to serve alcoholic beverages.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Booth in Kentucky?

The exact permits required for a food booth in Kentucky will vary depending on the location and specific circumstances. Generally, however, you will need to obtain either a one-day permit or a permanent permit from the local health department. Additionally, if you plan to serve alcohol at your booth, you will need to obtain a license from the state Alcoholic Beverage Control Board. Finally, depending on the location of your food booth, you may need to apply for additional permits from the local fire department and/or zoning board.

What Permits do You Need for a Cottage Food Business in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, cottage food businesses need to be registered with the county health department. The Kentucky Department of Public Health also requires cottage food businesses to obtain a food permit from their local health department before selling any food products. The food permit is valid for two years and must be renewed each year. Additionally, all cottage food businesses must meet the state requirements for proper food handling, labeling, and storage.

What are the Penalties for Selling Food without a Permit in Kentucky?

The penalties for selling food without a permit in Kentucky depend on the specific circumstances of the violation. Generally speaking, unauthorized food sales can result in both criminal and civil penalties.

Criminal penalties can include fines, jail time, and other punishments. The fines can range from $25 to $500, depending on the severity of the offense. Jail time is also possible if the sale of food is considered a more serious violation.

The civil penalties for selling food without a permit in Kentucky could include a cease and desist order, requiring the seller to stop selling food immediately and pay any applicable fines and costs. The Kentucky Department of Public Health may also revoke the seller’s license, if one is held, and refer the case to the local prosecutor for possible criminal prosecution. Additionally, any food sold without a permit is subject to seizure by the Department of Public Health.