Selling Home-Baked Goods to Restaurants in North Carolina: Cottage Food Law Guide

Legal Framework

North Carolina's Cottage Food Law permits home bakers to sell certain non-potentially hazardous baked goods to restaurants without a full food-processing license, provided they meet specific requirements.

Requirements

• Register with NCDA&CS and obtain a Cottage Food Operation permit.
• Pass a home kitchen inspection by NCDA&CS.
• Label all products with baker's name/address, production date, and ingredients.
• Sell directly to consumers or restaurants—no third-party retail.

Limitations

• Annual gross sales capped at $20,000.
• Only non-potentially hazardous items allowed (cakes, cookies, breads, muffins). No meat, dairy, eggs, or refrigerated foods.

Next Steps

Review the full law on the NCDA&CS website and ensure compliance before selling.