Maryland direct-to-consumer guide, 2026
Honey
Raw honey and bee products
Confirm Eligibility With MDH$100KCottage cap if eligible
SingleIngredient labeling
FDAHoney labeling standards
6%Tax on non-food items
What is covered
YESCovered by this path
- Honey from your own hives
- Comb honey and creamed honey
- Honey sold directly to consumers
NONeeds a different path
- Honey mixed with other ingredients without relabeling
- Infant health claims
- Out-of-state cottage shipments
Three compliance steps
AConfirm eligibility
Ask MDH whether honey sales fit your cottage registration
BLabel
Name, address, net weight, and a not for infants under one note
CKeep records
Track production and sales
Quick reference
| Item | Rule | Regulator |
|---|
| Honey | Confirm with MDH; low-hazard shelf-stable food | MDH |
| Net weight | Required on the label | FDA |
| Infants | Warning recommended | FDA |
| Health claims | Not allowed | FDA / FTC |
| Sales tax | Confirm with the Comptroller | Comptroller |
FAQ
Is honey cottage eligible?
Not confirmed in the sources reviewed.
Do I need a bee license?
Maryland has a separate apiary program; confirm with MDA.
Can I call it raw?
Only if accurate.
Checklist