NJ · New Jersey Department of Health

New Jersey cottage food laws

New Jersey's health department publishes a cottage food page with a defined food list. Do not assume a food allowed in a neighboring state is allowed here.

Official source: New Jersey cottage food page. Reviewed October 2026. Not legal advice.

What the New Jersey law decides

New Jersey cottage food law answers these points. The state page is the current list. A county health department or a farmers market can add a form, a fee, or a product ban.

  • Which foods are allowed, and which foods need refrigeration or a pH test
  • The current sales cap, or whether the state has removed it
  • Where you can sell: farmers markets, online orders, shipping, and stores
  • The label, including allergens and any home-kitchen statement
  • Registration, a food-handler class, or a county permit

Sell it only after the rule checks out

A cottage food page is market research, not a promise of income. Price the product, find a market in New Jersey, and sell one batch before you buy equipment.