Complete guide to Louisiana's cottage food laws: $30,000 per year (general); No limit for breads, cakes, cookies, and pies annual limit, registration required, and in-person sales only.
Louisiana has a split system: breads, cakes, cookies, and pies have NO revenue cap. All other cottage foods are capped at $30,000/year. Uniquely allows custard/cream-filled bakery products if pasteurized milk is used. Must obtain sales tax certificates. Direct sales only.
Annual Sales Limit
$30,000 per year (general); No limit for breads, cakes, cookies, and pies
Registration/Permit
Required — Must obtain a Louisiana General Sales Tax Certificate and a local sales tax certificate.
Kitchen Inspection
No inspection required
Food Handler Certification
Not required
Online Sales
No — in-person sales only
Governing Agency
Legislation: Louisiana RS 40:4.9 (Cottage Food Law); HB 828 (2022, raised limit to $30,000)
Every product you sell must include these on the label:
Louisiana allows specific non-potentially-hazardous foods. See the allowed products list above. If your product isn't listed, check with Louisiana Department of Health (LDH).
Louisiana does not require food handler certification, but taking one builds customer trust and helps you follow best practices.
Must obtain a Louisiana General Sales Tax Certificate and a local sales tax certificate.
Louisiana requires specific label elements on every product. See the labeling requirements section above for the exact list.
Begin selling at approved venues in Louisiana. Track your sales to stay within the $30,000 per year (general); No limit for breads, cakes, cookies, and pies annual limit.
Ask our AI assistant about Louisiana's specific cottage food requirements, labeling rules, and selling venues.
Chat with AI AssistantCottage food laws change frequently. This guide is for informational purposes only. Always verify current requirements with Louisiana's department of agriculture or health department before starting a cottage food business.