Tennessee requires a state permit but has no revenue cap and allows online ordering. The delivery constraint (vendor delivery or pickup, not common carrier) is the main limitation. The Tennessee Food Freedom Act expanded what home producers can sell.
Revenue Cap
No cap
Online Sales
Allowed
Food Freedom
No
Tennessee requires a state permit but has no revenue cap and allows online ordering. The delivery constraint (vendor delivery or pickup, not common carrier) is the main limitation. The Tennessee Food Freedom Act expanded what home producers can sell.
No cap
Annual revenue limit for cottage food operations
Tennessee has no revenue cap on cottage food sales. This means you can grow your home food business without hitting an artificial ceiling. This is one of the most business-friendly aspects of Tennessee's cottage food law and puts it among the best states in the country for home food producers.
Online sales are permitted in Tennessee
Tennessee allows cottage food producers to take orders online and sell through digital channels. This includes websites, social media platforms, and online marketplaces. The specific rules around delivery and shipping vary — some states allow intrastate shipping via common carriers, while others require the producer to deliver directly.
Because Tennessee is a green-tier state, cottage food producers here can potentially sell on Food Store Direct. FSD handles the platform, SEO, and multi-channel presence — you focus on making great food.
Every cottage food product sold in Tennessee must have a label that meets state requirements. While the specifics vary by state, most require the following elements:
Most states require a prominent disclaimer such as: “This product was made in a home kitchen that is not inspected by the state department of health.” Check Tennessee's specific required language with your state agency.
Read Tennessee's cottage food law carefully. Understand what products are allowed, what your revenue cap is (No cap), and whether online sales are permitted. Bookmark your state agency's website for reference.
Some states require registration, permits, or food safety training before you can start selling. Tennessee may have specific requirements — check with your state agriculture department or health department.
Ensure your home kitchen meets any applicable standards. While most cottage food laws exempt home kitchens from commercial inspection, you still need to follow good food safety practices and keep your kitchen clean and organized.
Design labels that include all required information: product name, ingredients, allergens, net weight, your name and address, and Tennessee's required disclaimer statement.
Tennessee allows online sales, so you can reach customers through websites, social media, and online platforms like Food Store Direct. Start with a few products and grow from there.
For the most current and official information about cottage food laws in Tennessee, contact your state agency directly. Laws change frequently, and your state agency is the definitive source.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current regulations with your state agency before starting a cottage food operation.
Tennessee allows online cottage food sales. Food Store Direct can help you reach customers across your state with zero listing fees and no monthly charges.