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

A

Identify the process

Blending purchased dry spices differs from drying your own herbs

B

Label

Ingredients, allergens, weight, name and address, and the cottage disclaimer if applicable

C

Stay in Maryland

Deliver to Maryland addresses

Quick reference

ItemRuleRegulator
Spice blendsCottage eligible if nonhazardousMDH
Home-dried herbsReported as not allowed; confirmMDH
Fresh herbsRaw produce rulesMDA / FDA
LabelsIngredients and allergensFDA
ClaimsNo disease claimsFDA / 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