If you’re a cottage food producer in Texas, the game just changed—and ACE Food Handler is here to help you stay ahead of the curve.
Thanks to Senate Bill 541, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has officially opened registration for cottage food operators. This new system gives you more flexibility, more privacy, and more opportunity to grow your business.
Who Needs to Register?
DSHS registration is now available—and in some cases, required—for:
• 🏠 Texas Cottage Food Operators who want a unique identifier number to use on product labels instead of their home address
• ❄️ Cottage food operators selling Time/Temperature Control for Safety (TCS) foods, such as cheesecakes, flan, or refrigerated items
• 🛒 Cottage food vendors selling wholesale, including those distributing through retail stores, restaurants, or farmers markets
If you fall into any of these categories, it’s time to get registered.
Why It Matters
This registration isn’t just a formality—it’s a major upgrade for cottage food businesses across Texas. Here’s what it unlocks:
• ✅ Privacy: Replace your home address with a DSHS-issued identifier on your labels
• ✅ Expanded product options: Sell refrigerated foods legally under the new law
• ✅ Wholesale access: Become a registered vendor and distribute your products beyond direct-to-consumer sales
And don’t worry—this registration does not open the door to inspections or additional regulation of your home kitchen. It’s simply a way to verify Texas Cottage Food Operators and expand your legal rights under SB 541.

How to Register
Registration is available through the Texas DSHS Retail Food Establishments page — just scroll down to the section titled Legislative

Updates / SB 541 / NEW: Registration Required.
The process is self-service, free of charge, and designed to be quick and straightforward. You’ll need basic business info, your contact details, and a few minutes to complete the form.

ACE Food Handler Is Here to Support You
As Texas cottage food laws evolve, ACE Food Handler continues to provide trusted, affordable training for food safety and compliance. Whether you’re just starting out or expanding into wholesale and refrigerated products, we’ve got the tools to help you succeed.
Stay safe, stay compliant, and stay growing—with ACE.