Maryland direct-to-consumer guide, 2026
Beverages
Juices, kombucha, cold brew and bottled drinks
Licensed Facility RequiredLicensedMDH processing facility
HACCPJuice rule (retail exemption possible)
TTBFederal alcohol permits
6%MD sales tax on drinks
What is covered
YESCovered by this path
- Drinks made in a licensed kitchen
- Bottled juice sold directly to the final consumer
- Dry drink mixes (check cottage list)
NONeeds a different path
- Home-bottled juice or kombucha
- Alcoholic drinks without permits
- Drinks sold out of state without FDA review
Three compliance steps
APick a facility
Use a licensed commercial kitchen or processing plant; home bottling is not covered by cottage law
BCheck juice rules
FDA Juice HACCP applies to juice, with a retail exemption for direct sales to consumers
CAdd permits
Alcohol needs state and federal permits before any sale
Quick reference
| Item | Rule | Regulator |
|---|
| Bottled juice | Licensed facility; Juice HACCP unless retail-exempt | MDH / FDA |
| Kombucha | Treat as a processed beverage; alcohol content matters | MDH / TTB |
| Alcohol | Separate state and federal permits | Comptroller / TTB |
| Labels | Ingredients, allergens, net contents | FDA |
| Sales tax | Taxable; confirm rate for your drink | Comptroller |
FAQ
Can I bottle juice at home?
The sources reviewed do not extend cottage rules to bottled beverages; use a licensed facility.
Is kombucha alcoholic?
Fermentation can create alcohol; above the federal threshold it is regulated as alcohol.
Do I need Juice HACCP?
It applies unless you meet the retail exemption.
Checklist