Colorado’s cottage food law allows home cooks to sell certain foods they make in their own kitchens. This Colorado Cottage Food List clarifies what you can and can’t sell, empowering you to start a home-based food business legally.
Understanding the Colorado Cottage Food List
The colorado cottage food list is a crucial resource for anyone interested in selling homemade food products in Colorado. It dictates which foods are considered low-risk and permissible to sell under the cottage food law, and which are considered high-risk and require a commercial kitchen. This list helps protect consumers while allowing home-based food businesses to flourish. Being familiar with the list is essential for staying compliant and avoiding penalties.
What Can You Sell Under the Colorado Cottage Food Law?
The list of approved cottage foods in Colorado generally includes non-potentially hazardous foods that don’t require refrigeration. Some common examples include:
- Baked goods (breads, cakes, cookies, pastries)
- Jams and jellies
- Dry mixes (for cakes, cookies, etc.)
- Honey
- Certain candies (hard candies, brittle)
- Dried herbs and spices
- Roasted coffee beans
- Dried pasta
- Popcorn and caramel corn
- Fruit butters
This isn’t an exhaustive list, so it’s always best to consult the official colorado cottage food list published by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) for the most up-to-date information.
Foods You Can’t Sell Under the Colorado Cottage Food Law
Certain foods are considered high-risk and are prohibited from being sold under Colorado’s cottage food law. These generally include foods that require refrigeration to prevent bacterial growth, such as:
- Meat and poultry products
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Low-acid canned goods
- Custards and cream-filled pastries
- Refrigerated sauces and dips
- Seafood
Excluding these items from the colorado cottage food list ensures consumer safety by mitigating the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Labeling Requirements for Colorado Cottage Foods
Proper labeling is crucial for compliance with the colorado cottage food law. Labels must include:
- The name and address of your cottage food operation.
- The name of the food product.
- All ingredients listed in descending order of predominance by weight.
- The weight or net volume of the product.
- Any allergen information, clearly labeled according to federal regulations.
- A statement indicating that the food was produced in a home kitchen that is not inspected by the state.
Following these guidelines ensures transparency and helps consumers make informed decisions.
What are the Common Mistakes Cottage Food Operators Make?
One common mistake is not staying updated with the most recent colorado cottage food list. The regulations can change, so staying informed is critical. Another common error is improper labeling. Ensure your labels meet all the requirements to avoid penalties. Finally, some operators overlook the importance of record keeping, which is crucial for tracking sales and expenses.
Proper Labeling for Colorado Cottage Food Products
Selling Your Cottage Food Products in Colorado
Colorado’s cottage food law allows for direct sales to consumers, meaning you can sell your products at farmers’ markets, festivals, and directly from your home. However, you cannot sell your products wholesale or to retail stores. Understanding these sales channels is essential for maximizing your reach while remaining compliant.
Conclusion
Navigating the colorado cottage food list is an important first step in starting your home-based food business. By understanding the regulations, adhering to labeling requirements, and focusing on approved products, you can successfully and legally sell your homemade treats in Colorado. Remember to consult the official CDPHE resources for the most up-to-date information and ensure you are following all current guidelines.
FAQ
- Where can I find the official colorado cottage food list? (Answer: The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s website.)
- Can I sell cottage foods online in Colorado? (Answer: No, online sales are not permitted.)
- What are the labeling requirements for colorado cottage foods? (Answer: Labels must include the name and address of the operation, product name, ingredients, weight, allergens, and a disclaimer.)
- Do I need a license to sell cottage foods in Colorado? (Answer: No, but you must register your operation with the local health department.)
- What happens if I don’t follow the colorado cottage food regulations? (Answer: You may face penalties, including fines or the closure of your operation.)
- Can I sell cottage foods at restaurants or retail stores? (Answer: No, only direct sales to consumers are allowed.)
- Are there limits on how much I can sell under the cottage food law? (Answer: Yes, there is an annual gross sales limit.)
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