In New Jersey, the cottage food law allows you to sell non-time/temperature control (non-TCS) foods — meaning items that don’t need refrigeration to stay safe. These include:

• Baked goods (like cookies, bread, cakes, muffins)

• Candy and confections

• Dried herbs and teas

• Popcorn and dry mixes

• Jams and jellies made with high-acid fruits

• Roasted coffee and nuts

You cannot sell: meat, fish, dairy-based goods (like cream pies or cheesecakes), or anything requiring refrigeration.

We'll help you identify exactly which of your recipes qualify.

Starting a legal cottage food business in NJ is affordable compared to most other food businesses. Here's a typical cost breakdown:

NJ Cottage Food Operator Permit: $100 (valid for 2 years)
Basic Equipment (scale, labels, storage): $50–$150
Ingredients + Packaging: $50–$200 (depends on your product)
Food Safety Training (optional but helpful): $45–$125

Total Estimated Startup Cost: $200–$500

We can help you budget based on what you already have and what you'll actually need.

Cottage Food Kitchen is designed to walk you through every step—from understanding the law and applying for your permit, to setting up your business and selling at a farmers market.

We provide:

• Simple guides and checklists

• 1-on-1 coaching

• Help filling out applications

• Support marketing and pricing your product

• Real-world sales opportunities at local markets

You don’t have to figure this out alone. We’ll be with you at every stage.