The Illinois Department of Public Health and University of Illinois Extension have released the 2026 Cottage Food Guide, along with an Addendum to the 2024 Cottage Food Guide, reflecting changes to state laws, regulations, food safety standards, and operational requirements.
Some of the most notable updates include:
- Clarification that cottage foods must be prepared in a registered home or farm kitchen, not in a licensed commercial kitchen.
- New guidance for businesses that operate both a licensed retail food establishment and a registered cottage food operation.
- Expanded rules regarding frostings, cheese-based baked goods, and foods requiring water activity or pH testing.
- Clarification that pre-bottled beverages are allowed, but drinks cannot be prepared or served on-site under a cottage food registration.
- New guidance on freeze-dried foods, reusable packaging, pop-up sales inside licensed establishments, and updated labeling requirements, including the requirement to list the full production date and net weight on labels.
Whether you’re launching a home-based food business or are already selling under Illinois’ Cottage Food Law, now is an excellent time to review the updated guidance to ensure your business remains compliant. Staying informed can help you avoid costly mistakes while taking advantage of new opportunities available under the revised regulations.
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