The Georgia Food Act requires anyone who intends to operate a food sales establishment in the state of Georgia to obtain a license from the Department. The only exemption to the licensing requirement is for food sold at non- profit events.
Operators can use their home kitchen to make products to sell directly to consumers at non-profit events, for-profit events, and through online sales. Note: Cottage food operators aren't allowed to distribute or wholesale these products, nor can they ship cottage food products across state lines.
What is the Cottage Food Operation law? Major changes took effect January 1, 2022 due to the passage of the Home-to-Market Act (Public Act 102-0633 amending 410 ILCS 625/4). This law allows certain foods made in home kitchens to be sold directly to consumers with limited regulation.
Georgia cottage food producers may only sell directly to the consumer, whether at nonprofit events, for-profit events like farmers' markets, or online. Georgia cottage food producers may not sell cottage food wholesale to retail establishments, restaurants or any other venue.
Home-based food businesses (e.g. private chefs, farmer's market vendors) are allowed to sell food in keeping with the Health Protection and Promotion Act (HPPA) and the Food Premises Regulation.
Cottage food sales are allowed under Georgia regulations. Licensed cottage food operators are permitted to make only food that is not potentially hazardous (see examples of approved products below).
Farm Business and Food Sales Whether you are a farm business, food processor, or distributor in the state of Georgia, you will need a current Georgia Business License, which are issued by city and county governments.
Ing to Georgia's homemade food law, applicants must get a business license, complete an accredited food safety program and pass a home inspection before selling their first loaf of bread or cookie. Once established, a home-based business must follow strict food labeling guidelines.