Maryland direct-to-consumer guide, 2026
Herbs & Spices
Culinary herbs, spice blends and seasonings
Confirm Eligibility With MDH
NoHome drying of herbs (reported)
$100KCottage cap if eligible
FDALabeling and allergens
MD onlyDelivery addresses
What is covered
YESCovered by this path
- Purchased dried spices blended and packaged
- Dry seasoning blends
- Fresh herbs sold as raw produce
NONeeds a different path
- Herbs dried at home in a cottage kitchen
- Spice products with health claims
- Out-of-state shipments
Three compliance steps
AIdentify the process
Blending purchased dry spices differs from drying your own herbs
BLabel
Ingredients, allergens, weight, name and address, and the cottage disclaimer if applicable
CStay in Maryland
Deliver to Maryland addresses
Quick reference
| Item | Rule | Regulator |
|---|
| Spice blends | Cottage eligible if nonhazardous | MDH |
| Home-dried herbs | Reported as not allowed; confirm | MDH |
| Fresh herbs | Raw produce rules | MDA / FDA |
| Labels | Ingredients and allergens | FDA |
| Claims | No disease claims | FDA / FTC |
FAQ
Can I dry herbs at home?
A secondary summary says no; confirm with MDH.
Can I sell fresh basil?
Yes as raw produce.
Do blends need allergen labels?
Yes for any major allergen.
Checklist