Start your food business at home as a Cottage Food Operation. In Illinois, certain foods can be made in home kitchens and sold at farmers' markets and other locations. Learn the basics of Illinois Cottage Food Law, including current legislation, allowed and prohibited foods, essential safety standards, labeling and compliance requirements, and best practices for selling.
Becoming a Cottage Food Operator is an excellent approach to start a food business without major inputs like renting a commercial kitchen. While cottage foods are typically low risk, it's important that entrepreneurs comply with safety standards and ensure their products are safe.
If you are unable to attend a class, review the Cottage Food page from Illinois Extension or take the Self-Paced online course.
Staff from Macon County Health Department and DeWitt-Piatt Bi-County Health Department will be present at each class to answer questions.
Please Register by April 9.