Maryland Cottage Food Business Statewide Regulations

Maryland defines cottage food businesses as home producers selling non-hazardous foods like baked goods, jams, candies, and dry mixes directly to consumers, at farmers markets, public events, or online with in-person delivery. Annual gross sales were capped at $25,000 historically and raised to higher thresholds by recent legislation. Products must carry labels identifying the producer, address, ingredients, allergens, and a statement that the food is made in a home kitchen not subject to inspection. Retail sales through grocery stores remain prohibited.

Operating without proper labeling or exceeding scope subjects producers to Department of Health enforcement, civil penalties, and potential cease-and-desist orders.