Cottage Food Laws in Arkansas
permissiveComplete guide to cottage food and bakery regulations in Arkansas. Updated for 2026.
General information, not legal advice. Cottage food laws change frequently — verify with the official source before launching your business. Report an error. Last verified: August 2026.
| Annual Sales Limit | No limit (Act 1040 of 2021, Food Freedom Act) |
| License Required | No — No license, permit, or registration required for qualifying homemade non-TCS foods. No state-mandated food safety training (recommended but not required). |
| Kitchen Inspection | No inspection required. |
| Online Sales | Allowed — Online sales permitted under Act 1040. Delivery by producer, agent, or mail/parcel carrier allowed within Arkansas. Interstate shipping triggers federal regulation. |
Allowed Products
- Baked goods
- Candy
- Jams, jellies, and fruit butters
- Honey
- Dry mixes
- Chocolate-covered fruit (uncut)
- Pickles, salsas, and sauces with pH below 4.6
Prohibited Products
- Foods requiring time/temperature control for safety (TCS)
- Baked goods with cream cheese frosting or cheese fillings
- Fresh-cut fruits and vegetables
- Meat products
- Items made with artificial sweeteners (e.g. Splenda)
Labeling Requirements
- Name and address of the producer (or Arkansas Dept. of Agriculture ID number)
- Name of the product
- Ingredients list (in descending order by weight)
- "This product was produced in a private residence that is exempt from state licensing and inspection. This product may contain allergens."
- Date the product was made
Where You Can Sell
- Farmers markets
- Direct from home
- Community events
- Online (in-state)
How Arkansas Compares
| State | Sales Limit | License | Online | Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | No limit (Act 1040 of 2021, Food Freedom Act) | No | Yes | permissive |
| Missouri | No sales cap (the cap was removed by HB 1697, effective 2022) | No | Yes | permissive |
| Tennessee | No annual sales cap (Tennessee Food Freedom Act) | No | Yes | moderate |
| Mississippi | $35,000 per year | No | No | moderate |
| Louisiana | $50,000 per year for low-risk foods (HB 403, effective August 1, 2026); bakery items have no dollar cap | No | No | moderate |
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I sell under Arkansas cottage food law?▾
Under Act 1040 of 2021 (the Arkansas Food Freedom Act), you can sell non-TCS shelf-stable homemade foods — baked goods, candy, jams, jellies, fruit butters, honey, dry mixes, and acidified items below pH 4.6. There is no annual sales cap.
Do I need a license or food safety training in Arkansas?▾
No. Act 1040 requires no permit, registration, or state-mandated food safety training for qualifying homemade non-TCS foods. Food safety training is recommended but not legally required.
Can I sell cottage food products online in Arkansas?▾
Yes. Online sales and delivery within Arkansas are permitted under Act 1040 — including via mail or parcel carrier. Shipping out of state subjects you to federal regulation.
Official source: Arkansas Dept. of Health — Food Protection FAQ (Act 1040 Food Freedom Act)