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Kentucky · Direct-to-Consumer Compliance

Herbs & Spices

Dried herbs and spices are on the cottage food list

Cottage Food Eligible
ListedDried herbs and spices are named on the DFS-250 list
Dry onlyNon-potentially hazardous, shelf-stable products
BannedGarlic-in-oil products
$50Annual registration

What's Covered / Needs a Different Path

What's Covered

  • Dried herbs and spices
  • Seasoning blends built from dried ingredients, once listed on your registration
  • Direct sales inside Kentucky

Needs a Different Path

  • Herbs in oil, including garlic-in-oil
  • Infused oils and vinegars (see Oils, Vinegars)
  • Herbs sold with medicinal claims

Compliance Steps

A

Register

File DFS-250 and the $50 fee.

B

Dry thoroughly

Only shelf-stable dried products qualify.

C

Label

Name, ingredients by weight, net weight, home-produced statement, date; add allergens such as sesame.

Quick Reference

ItemRuleRegulator
Dried herbs and spicesAllowedCHFS Food Safety Branch
Garlic-in-oilProhibitedCHFS
SesameMajor allergen; declareFDA
Medicinal claimsRegulated as supplements or drugsFDA

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to grow the herbs?

No.

Can I sell a rub with oil?

Not under cottage rules.

Are herb blends taxed?

Food ingredients are generally exempt.

Printable Checklist