Cottage Food Laws in Michigan
Essential Guide for Home-based Producers
This article is part of our Guide on Cottage Food Laws State By State
Cottage Food Laws in Michigan offer an opportunity for small-scale food entrepreneurs to produce and sell a variety of homemade food products. These laws, established in 2010 under the Michigan Food Law, allow individuals to produce non-potentially hazardous foods in their home kitchens and sell them directly to consumers. By eliminating the need for commercial kitchen facilities, cottage food producers can launch their businesses with relatively low start-up costs, fostering innovation and creativity in the local food scene.
The Michigan Cottage Food Law outlines specific guidelines for producers to follow in terms of food safety, labeling, and sales. Foods allowed under this legislation include baked goods, preserves, dry mixes, and more. However, it's crucial for producers to be aware of the restrictions on certain foods that pose a higher risk for foodborne illnesses, such as meat and dairy products. Compliance with these regulations ensures that products sold by cottage food businesses are safe for consumers while also supporting the growth of local food economies in Michigan.
In recent years, the popularity of cottage food businesses has surged as more people seek out locally sourced, artisanal products. This demand for unique and high-quality foods has played a vital role in the success of many home-based food entrepreneurs. As the landscape of Michigan's cottage food industry continues to evolve, including food truck license Michigan, it's essential for producers to stay informed about the regulations and requirements in order to sustain a thriving and safe food community in the state.
Cottage Food Laws in Michigan Overview
Cottage Food Laws in Michigan allow individuals to produce and sell various home-prepared food items without needing a commercial kitchen or food safety inspections. These laws are designed to support small-scale food entrepreneurs, such as bakers and jam makers, who want to start their own cosy cottage businesses without the costly overhead of an industrial food operation.
Under the Michigan Cottage Food Law, approved cottage food products must be non-potentially hazardous, meaning they do not require refrigeration to stay safe for consumption. Examples of such products include baked goods, jams, jellies, and dry mixes. However, there are certain restrictions and guidelines that must be followed to ensure the safety and quality of the products being sold.
Firstly, cottage food producers in Michigan are limited to annual gross sales of $25,000 or less. This cap ensures that the law supports only small-scale, home-based food businesses. Additionally, all cottage food products must be clearly labeled with specific information about the product, such as the ingredients, allergens, and the maker's contact information. Sellers must also include the following statement on their labels: "Made in a home kitchen that the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development has not inspected."
Cottage food products cannot be sold across state lines and can only be sold directly to consumers within Michigan. This includes venues such as farmers' markets, roadside stands, and various events where the seller directly interacts with the buyer. The products cannot be sold to retail stores, restaurants, or online platforms.
It is essential for cottage food producers to adhere to the guidelines laid out by the Michigan Cottage Food Law. This ensures the consumers' safety and preserves the industry's integrity. By following these guidelines, individuals can confidently and knowledgeably operate a home-based food business in Michigan.
Eligible Food Products
Non-Hazardous Foods
In Michigan, cottage food laws permit the production and sale of various non-hazardous foods. These products must have a low risk of causing foodborne illnesses. Some examples of eligible food products include:
Baked goods without cream, custard, or meat fillings
Jams, jellies, and preserves
Dry herbs and seasonings
Candy and confections
Dried fruits (What wine goes well with dried fruits?) and vegetables
Popcorn (how long does popcorn last?) and popcorn snacks
Roasted coffee beans (how long do coffee beans last?) and loose tea
Honey and maple syrup
It is essential for cottage food producers to carefully consider their product offerings and ensure they fall within these non-hazardous categories.
Hazards to Avoid
While Michigan's cottage food laws serve to support small food businesses, they also aim to protect public health. Cottage food producers must avoid certain hazards that could compromise food safety:
High-risk ingredients: Foods containing cream, custard, or meat fillings are prohibited due to the increased risk of spoilage and contamination.
Temperature-sensitive foods: Products requiring refrigeration or hot storage to maintain their safety should not be produced under cottage food laws.
Home processing: Producers must process their foods in a home kitchen and not a commercial facility. Storage and preparation areas should be kept clean and prevent cross-contamination.
Unsafe packaging: Cottage food products must be adequately packaged to prevent contamination and spoilage. Containers should be clean, food-safe, and well-sealed.
By strictly adhering to these guidelines, cottage food producers in Michigan can contribute to a vibrant and safe local food economy while ensuring the well-being of their customers.
Labeling Requirements
Content To Be Included
When selling cottage foods in Michigan, it is essential to comply with the state's labeling requirements. The label must include:
The name and address of the cottage food operation
The name of the product being sold
The ingredients of the product, listed in descending order of predominance by weight
The net weight or net volume of the product
Allergen information, as required by federal labeling guidelines
A statement indicating that the product is a home-produced and processed food, e.g., "Made in a home kitchen not inspected by the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development."
Format and Presentation
The labels should follow a clear and easy-to-read format. Here are some guidelines for formatting:
The text should be legible and use a font size of at least 11 points.
Common allergens should be bold or emphasized in some manner to be easily identified.
The net weight or net volume should be placed close to the bottom of the label, with both the metric and the U.S customary system units mentioned.
By adhering to these labeling requirements, cottage food operators in Michigan can ensure they are operating within the legal guidelines and providing their customers with important information about their products.
Sales and Operation Guidelines
Allowed Sales Locations
Cottage Food producers in Michigan are allowed to sell their products directly to consumers at venues such as:
Farmers markets
Roadside stands
Public/special events (e.g., festivals, fairs)
However, they are not permitted to sell their goods wholesale or through retail outlets, nor can they sell them online or ship them to customers.
Income Limitations
In Michigan, there is an annual income limitation for Cottage Food operations. Producers must not exceed $25,000 in gross sales per year. Records of sales should be diligently maintained in case of inspection or verification by authorities. This limitation ensures that the Cottage Food Law applies mainly to small-scale home businesses and not large-scale commercial operations.
Registration and Inspection
Local Health Department
In Michigan, cottage food producers must register their operation with the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD). Registration is free and can be done online at the MDARD website. Upon registering, producers will receive a Cottage Food Producer Registration number that should be included on all product labels.
Before starting production, it is essential for cottage food operators to contact their local health department to obtain any necessary permits, such as undergoing Michigan cottage food law online training and learn about other local regulations. Some counties in Michigan may require additional permits or have specific local requirements.
Inspection Requirements
Michigan's Cottage Food Law does not mandate routine inspections for cottage food operations by the MDARD. However, the department reserves the right to investigate any potential food safety concerns or violations.
It is critical for cottage food operators to maintain good sanitary practices while handling and preparing food to ensure food safety. Some best practice guidelines include:
Proper handwashing and sanitation measures
Safe food storage and temperature control
Separation of raw and ready-to-eat foods
Regular cleaning and sanitization of equipment and surfaces
By complying with the registration and inspection requirements, Michigan cottage food operators can legally produce and sell their goods while maintaining high food safety standards.
Common Misconceptions
Cottage Food Laws in Michigan allow individuals to produce and sell certain non-potentially hazardous food items from their homes. However, there are some common misconceptions surrounding these laws that should be addressed to ensure a clear understanding.
Firstly, many believe cottage food operations can produce and sell any type of food. In reality, Michigan Cottage Food Laws only permit non-potentially hazardous foods, which do not support the growth of harmful bacteria or toxins. Examples of such foods include baked goods, jams, and jellies. Potentially hazardous foods, like meats, dairy products, and prepared meals, are not allowed under these laws.
Another misconception is that obtaining a license or permit is not necessary for cottage food operations. While it's true that cottage food producers do not need to acquire a food establishment license, they must still adhere to specific labeling requirements and follow the Michigan food law and other applicable regulations.
Moreover, some people believe that cottage food businesses can operate without any restrictions on sales and distribution. However, Michigan Cottage Food Law 2023 only permits sales directly to consumers within the state and do not allow sales through interstate commerce. Additionally, the annual gross sales should not exceed $25,000.
Lastly, it's essential to address the misconception that cottage food operations do not need to maintain food safety standards. Although these businesses may not be regulated as strictly as food establishments, they must follow best practices for food safety, sanitation, and hygienic food handling.
In summary, it is crucial for individuals interested in starting a cottage food business in Michigan to understand these common misconceptions and stay updated on the state's regulations and requirements to ensure a successful and compliant business venture.
