Cottage Food Survey Spring 2019

Types of Food Sold Baked Goods Dehydrated fruits and vegetables

Sales locations and methods

Importance of Cottage Food Revenue

Biggest Drawback of Operating a Cottage Food Business - 898 responses Limits, restrictions, or rules – 350 Shipping prohibition – 94 Online sales prohibition – 78 Restrictions on sales locations – 45 Lack of space - 36 Nothing - 7

Biggest Drawback Comments “Internet restrictions, location restrictions, income restrictions. Restrictions, restrictions, restrictions!!” “The limitations placed on us which have nothing to do with food safety make it difficult to earn enough money to transition to a commercial kitchen.” “Not having an Etsy store and not being able to ship.” “It can be very overwhelming to learn all of the various requirements to correctly obey all of the cottage food laws.” “The limitation to sell only locally and at farmers markets. I would love to sell to other small businesses or restaurants!” “Doing everything yourself. You don’t leave your job and go home.” “Umm… nothing! It’s the best job I could imagine.”

Favorite Things About Operating a Cottage Food Business – 943 Responses Flexibility and Freedom – 217 Time with Family – 120 Setting Their Own Schedule – 104 Being Able to Care for Kids or Family – 85 Owning Their Own Business – 65 Happy Customers - 25

Favorite Things Comments “As a senior citizen it keeps me busy and helps keep me independent.” “The ability to make extra income to supplement my teacher retirement.” “I can work while my children sleep.” “I was able to generate our candies at home while going through 18 months of breast cancer chemo and radiation and as my strength permitted.” “My profits go to paying off my student loan debt. Hoping to get my student loans paid off so that I can purchase a home one day soon!” “It has given my family a source of income while still allowing me to be a full time caregiver to my husband, who suffers from early onset dementia.” “The commute.” “I am able to work even when I don’t have a car available.” “Everything. I wouldn’t change it for the world.”