How to Legally sell food from home in Michigan

Michigan's Cottage Food Law allows people with culinary talents to sell certain food items they've prepared in their homes without a business license or separate commercial kitchen. Permitted foods include non-perishables such as baked products, jams, jellies, pickles, popcorn, granola, dried spices, and meat, dairy products, and canned goods. Packaging criteria are not specified, but it is important to wrap goods properly to ensure quality and freshness. The Michigan Cottage Food Law is a great opportunity for budding food entrepreneurs to turn their kitchens into successful, locally-based enterprises. It requires accurate labeling to notify buyers of ingredients, allergies, and how to contact the manufacturer.

Direct sales are allowed, but not mail. Scaling up beyond the confines of the law is recommended to expand the product line and investigate untapped markets. The law is meant to inspire budding food entrepreneurs to don an apron and turn on the stove.