Minnesota Cottage Food Law 2026
Last reviewed:
License Required
Limit: $78,000 / 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 and jellies
- ✓Candy
- ✓Dried herbs and teas
- ✓Home-canned pickles, fruits, and acidified vegetables (pH ≤ 4.6)
- ✓Fermented foods and vinegars
Prohibited
- ✕Meat, poultry, fish
- ✕Dairy products
- ✕Unbaked eggs
- ✕Refrigerated or frozen foods
- ✕Low-acid canned foods (pH > 4.6)
- ✕Pickled meats, fish, or eggs
- ✕Hemp-derived / cannabinoid-containing foods
Labeling Protocols
01Producer name and MDA registration number or address
02Date food was prepared
03Ingredient list (descending weight)
04Allergen declaration
05Statement: 'These products are homemade and not subject to state inspection.' (also required on a placard at point of sale AND on any website advertising the food)
FAQs
Do I need a license to sell cottage food in Minnesota?
Minnesota does not issue a 'license,' but the MDA requires mandatory annual registration under Minn. Stat. § 28A.152. Tier 1 (≤$7,665/yr) is free with MDA self-guided training. Tier 2 ($7,666–$78,000/yr) is $50 and requires an approved food safety course every 3 years.
Can I ship cottage food in Minnesota?
Not yet. Through July 31, 2027, human cottage food may not be shipped by mail or commercial carrier — even within Minnesota. The producer must personally deliver to the customer or meet them in person within the state. Pet treats are the only current exception. SF391 (passed 2025) will allow in-state shipping starting August 1, 2027.
Can I sell online?
Yes. You may advertise and accept orders online, but you must deliver in person within Minnesota and post the disclaimer 'These products are homemade and not subject to state inspection.' on your website.
What is the current sales cap?
$78,000 in gross annual sales as of 2026. The cap rises to $85,000 effective August 1, 2027 under 2025 SF391.
What disclaimer is required?
Exactly: 'These products are homemade and not subject to state inspection.' Required on every product label, on a placard at the point of sale, and on any website advertising the food.
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 Minnesota.
- 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
Required in Minnesota
Complete Food Safety Training
Minnesota requires a recognized food safety certification before you can sell. Learn2Serve offers an ANSI-accredited course you can complete online in 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 Minnesota-specific labeling fields you'll need.
Official Sources
Verify current requirements directly with the state:
At a Glance
Permit Fee
$0
Tier 1 (≤$7,665/yr) is free with free MDA self-guided training. Tier 2 ($7,666–$78,000/yr) is $50 (+~$2.50 online processing fee) and requires an approved food safety course every 3 years. MDA registration is mandatory for both tiers under Minn. Stat. § 28A.152.
Renewal
Annual (registration year April 1 – March 31 beginning 2026)
Shipping