Minnesota cottage food laws
Last updated October 26, 2026. Rules change, so always confirm with the official Minnesota source.
The law: Minnesota Cottage Food Exemption, Minn. Stat. 28A.152
What you can sell
Non-refrigerated baked goods, candy, dry mixes, and qualifying home-canned fruits, vegetables, and pickles are allowed. Canned products must meet the stated pH of 4.6 or lower or water activity of 0.85 or less.
What you can't sell
Foods requiring refrigeration for safety are not allowed under the cottage exemption.
Do you need a license or permit?
Register annually with MDA and complete training before sales: free registration through $7,665 gross sales, otherwise $50. Tier 1 training/exam is annual; Tier 2 approved training is every three years.
Sales limits
$78,000 gross annual sales per registered individual.
Where you can sell
Sell directly to consumers at home, community events, farmers markets, or by internet with personal delivery within Minnesota. Shipping and interstate sales are not authorized under the current exemption.
Label requirements
Include name or business name, address or registration number, production date, ingredients and allergens. Label and display: "These products are homemade and not subject to state inspection"; display the notice online for online sales.
Good to know
The registration year changed to April 1–March 31 in 2026. The single $30 tier and shipping authorization do not take effect until August 1, 2027.
Pricing your products
Knowing your real cost per item matters as much as following the law.
Try Oven Elf free →Source: https://www.mda.state.mn.us/food-feed/cottage-food-producer-registration
General summary, not legal advice.
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