Do I need to register to sell cottage food in Nebraska?

Yes, with the Nebraska Department of Agriculture.

Can I ship cottage food in Nebraska?

Shelf-stable food can be mailed. Perishable food must be delivered in person.

How to Sell Food From Home in Nebraska (2026)

Verified October 29, 2026 from official Nebraska sources.

The short answer: Nebraska cottage food producers must register with the Nebraska Department of Agriculture before selling and show a completed food safety course (with an exemption for producers selling only non-refrigerated food at farmers markets). Food must be sold directly to the customer.

iPhone app coming soon.

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Can I sell home-cooked meals in Nebraska?

Limited. Foods that need time or temperature control must be delivered in person by you, and transported no longer than two hours.

Registration

Where and how you can sell

Directly to the customer
Shelf-stable food may be shipped by U.S. mail or a commercial delivery service
Perishable food: delivered only by you, in person, within two hours of transport

Required notice (suggested by NDA)

This food was prepared in a kitchen that is not subject to regulation and inspection by the regulatory authority and may contain allergens.

Show it on labels, and on websites and ads for pickup or delivery sales.

How to get started

Complete a food safety course.
Register online with the Nebraska Department of Agriculture.
Get the app and set up your menu.

Official sources

Nebraska Department of Agriculture: Cottage Food Registration

FAQ

Do I need to register to sell cottage food in Nebraska?: Yes, with the Nebraska Department of Agriculture.
Can I ship cottage food in Nebraska?: Shelf-stable food can be mailed. Perishable food must be delivered in person.
Is training required?: Yes, a food safety course.

Ready to sell in Nebraska?