Michigan Cottage Food Law — Seller FAQ

What is the Michigan Cottage Food Law? It allows you to make and sell certain homemade foods without a commercial kitchen license or health inspection.

What can I sell? Baked goods (bread, cookies, cakes, pies, muffins), jams and jellies, candy and fudge, granola, dried herbs, roasted nuts, and honey.

What can't I sell? Anything requiring refrigeration — meat, dairy-based items, cream pies, cheesecakes, or anything that could spoil at room temperature.

How much can I make? Up to $25,000 per year in gross sales.

Do I need a license? No license required for cottage food items. You are fully responsible for food safety.

What must be on my label? Product name, your name and home address, ingredients list, net weight or volume, allergen info, and this exact statement: "Made in a home kitchen that has not been inspected by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development."

Selling Hot or Ready-to-Eat Food

Can I sell hot food on FooodHome? Yes. FooodHome allows hot and ready-to-eat food listings.

Is that legal? Hot food falls outside Cottage Food Law and may require a food handler's permit or additional licensing depending on your volume and setup. It is your responsibility as the seller to understand and comply with applicable laws.

What is FooodHome's responsibility? FooodHome is a marketplace platform connecting buyers and sellers. We do not prepare, handle, or sell food ourselves. All legal and food safety responsibility rests with the individual seller.

What should buyers know? Hot food and ready-to-eat items are prepared in home kitchens and may not be subject to health department inspection. Buy from sellers you trust and use your judgment.