Cottage Food Label Checklist

Check every field before printing your labels. Missing one item is the most common compliance mistake — this checklist prevents it.

Producer Name

Your full legal name (first and last). If using a business name, personal name must also appear.

Physical Home Address

Street number, street name, city, state, zip code. P.O. Box alone is not sufficient.

Product Name

Common name of the product, specific enough to identify what it is. "Peach Jam" not just "Jam."

Ingredient List — Descending Order by Weight

All ingredients listed with the heaviest ingredient first. Sub-ingredients disclosed in parentheses.

Net Weight or Net Volume

Both US customary and metric units. Example: "Net Wt. 8 oz (227g)." Does not include packaging weight.

Allergen Declaration

All 9 major allergens present declared: Milk, Eggs, Fish, Shellfish, Tree Nuts (specify type), Peanuts, Wheat, Soybeans, Sesame. In ingredient list or with "Contains:" statement.

State-Required Disclaimer Statement

Exact wording required by your state's cottage food law. Do not paraphrase. See your state's page for the specific language required.

Disclaimer is Legible

The disclaimer must be clearly readable. Minimum 6pt font recommended; larger is better. Contrasting colors.

Best-By Date (Optional but Recommended)

Not legally required for most cottage food, but improves customer trust and helps with inventory management.

Product Does NOT Require Refrigeration

Confirm your product is shelf-stable at room temperature. If it requires refrigeration, it is likely not permitted as cottage food in your state.

Complete labeling guide → State-specific disclaimer language →