Sheri Saskowski

Syrups are not part of the cottage food law in Illinois. I’m not sure what the rules about production are, but you might start by asking the health department.

It looks like you’d be okay if your dogs did not have access to your kitchen. You may be able to do this by putting up a gate on the door or something. I don’t think it matters whether the items are potentially hazardous or not… either way, it could affect a customer if they are allergic to dogs.

Kathleen, you’re right… it is strange that sales are allowed at farmers markets and not from home, and yet, a number of states have restrictions like this. Fortunately most allow sales from home too.

From what I’ve seen, it takes just one person to activate a cottage food law, or an amendment, in a state. Usually it involves finding a…[Read more]