Michigan Cottage Food Law 2026
Last reviewed:
No License Needed
Limit: $50,000 / Year
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
CottageFoodLicense.com is an informational platform, not a law firm. The information provided by our AI Checker, templates, and guides does not constitute legal advice. Cottage food laws change frequently. You must verify all information with your local health department before selling products.
Allowed
- ✓Baked goods (non-TCS)
- ✓Jams
- ✓Jellies
- ✓Candy
- ✓Dried fruit
- ✓Dried herbs
- ✓Cereal
- ✓Granola
- ✓Dry mixes
- ✓Vinegar
- ✓Honey
- ✓Popcorn
Prohibited
- ✕Meat, poultry, fish/seafood
- ✕Dairy products and cheese
- ✕Cheesecake
- ✕Cream/custard pies
- ✕Low-acid canned vegetables
- ✕Salsa, hot sauce
- ✕Pickles (unless meeting acid/process rules)
- ✕Garlic-in-oil
- ✕Kombucha
- ✕Fermented foods
- ✕Any TCS / time-temperature-control food
Labeling Protocols
01Business name
02Physical address (or phone + MSU Product Center registration number)
03Product name
04Ingredients in descending order by weight (including sub-ingredients)
05Net weight/volume with metric equivalent
06Allergen declaration (federal FALCPA)
07Disclaimer (≥11-pt, contrasting color): 'Made in a home kitchen that has not been inspected by the Michigan department of agriculture and rural development.'
FAQs
Can I sell online?
Yes. As of March 24, 2026 (HB 4122 / PA 51 of 2025), in-state internet sales, mail order, and third-party food-delivery platforms are permitted. You must offer the buyer a chance to interact with you via two-way communication (in person OR a virtual video meeting where parties can see and hear each other) before the sale. Out-of-state shipping is still prohibited.
Do I need a license?
No. Michigan does not require a cottage food license. You may optionally register with the MSU Product Center (one-time fee up to $50) so you can put a registration ID and phone number on labels instead of your home address.
What is the annual sales cap?
$50,000 per year, or $75,000 per year if every product you sell is priced at $250 or more per unit (e.g., wedding cakes). MDARD may adjust these limits annually for inflation beginning October 1, 2026, using the Detroit CPI (3-year average).
Can I sell to grocery stores or restaurants?
No. Sales must be direct to the end consumer. Wholesale, consignment, and retail resale are prohibited.
What disclaimer must my label include?
Exactly: 'Made in a home kitchen that has not been inspected by the Michigan department of agriculture and rural development.' — in at least 11-point font and in a color that contrasts with the background.
What Comes Next
After You Verify Compliance: Your Next 4 Steps
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- 01
Liability Shield
Form an LLC
Separating your personal finances from your cottage food business protects your home and savings if a customer ever brings a claim. Both providers below file in all 50 states and handle registered agent service for Michigan.
- 02
Protect Your Kitchen
Get Product Liability Insurance
A single allergy incident or contamination claim can erase years of profit. FLIP (Food Liability Insurance Program) is built specifically for cottage food operators — flat-rate annual policies with farmers market and online sales coverage included.
- 03
Recommended in Michigan
Complete Food Safety Training
Michigan does not mandate food safety training, but completing one builds buyer trust and protects you if a labeling or handling question ever arises. Learn2Serve's online course takes a few hours.
- 04
Production Ready
Set Up Your Kitchen and Labels
The right thermometers, storage containers, scale, and label printer turn a home kitchen into a compliant production space. Our Week 11 equipment guide walks through what we use and the Michigan-specific labeling fields you'll need.
Official Sources
Verify current requirements directly with the state:
At a Glance
Permit Fee
$0
No license fee. Optional one-time MSU Product Center registration up to $50 lets you use a registration ID + phone number on labels instead of your home address.
Renewal
N/A (no license); MSU registration is one-time
Shipping