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Approved Cottage Foods

CFOs are not allowed to manufacture potentially hazardous foods, acidified foods, or low acid canned food products that would support the growth of botulism if not properly prepared. CDPH will consider additions to the list four (4) times per calendar year (see form 8764 at bottom). 

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has established a list of currently approved food products (PDF 360 KB) that may qualify to be manufactured or repackaged by CFOs. As of March 10, 2023, the current list includes the below.  

See the full list of currently approved food products (CDPH, March 10, 2023) (PDF 360 KB) for examples and specifics

Some of the categories below have info sheets and presentations authored by this website in 2014. 

Baked Goods Without Cream, Custard, or Meat Fillings
Candy and Confections

Extracts Containing at Least 70 Proof or 35% Food-Grade for Human Consumption Ethanol/Alcohol

Dried, Dehydrated, and Freeze-Dried Foods

Frostings, Icings, Fondants, and Gum Pastes that do not Contain Eggs, Cream, or Cream Cheese

Honey and Sorghum Syrups

Fruit Butters, Jams, Jellies that Comply with Part 150 of Title 21 of The Code of Federal Regulations

Nuts, Nut Mixes, and Nut Butters

Powdered Drink Mixes Made from Manufactured Ingredients

Vinegar and Mustards

Forms and Email Contact

Pickled products, acidified foods such as chutneys and salsas, foods containing meat, and any food that requires refrigeration are NOT approved cottage foods in California.

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vinegar
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