Houston Cottage Food Laws Compliance Checklist

Texas Non-Potentially Hazardous Foods Allowed

Texas permits home-based food businesses to produce specific non-potentially hazardous items under §195.003 of the Food Establishment Rules. Allowed products include: jams, jellies, dried herbs, granola, trail mix, popcorn, candy, dry spice blends, baked goods without cream fillings, and certain dried produce. Houston operators must verify each product—beverages, meat products, aquatic foods, and anything requiring refrigeration are prohibited in home kitchens. The Texas DSHS maintains the official list on their food establishment standards page. Non-compliance can result in product seizure and business closure.

Houston-Specific Local Requirements & Permits

Harris County Health Department requires all home-based food operators to register with the Texas DSHS Homestead Operation program and obtain approval before production begins. Houston enforces additional food handler certification requirements—at least one person on premises must hold current food handler training from an approved provider (ServSafe, Texas Food Manager Certification, or equivalent). Keep records of all certifications available for inspection. Labeling requirements mandate operator name, address, product name, production date, and 'Made in a Home Kitchen' disclosure on all items. Products must be stored in a dedicated, clean area with no cross-contamination risk from household activities.

Common Houston Violations & Inspection Red Flags

Harris County inspectors cite violations when operators produce prohibited items (potentially hazardous foods, beverages, or meat products), fail to maintain proper labeling, or lack required food handler certifications. Cross-contamination from personal use kitchens—such as pet food storage, household cleaning supplies near food prep areas, or shared utensils—triggers immediate enforcement action. Inspectors also flag inadequate temperature control, missing production records, unlicensed sales channels, or selling to food service establishments (home food operations must sell directly to consumers only). Documentation failures, including missing startup approvals or expired certifications, frequently result in compliance notices and potential business suspension.

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