Maryland direct-to-consumer guide, 2026
Vegetables
Fresh whole vegetables from the farm
Farm Exempt (Raw Produce)0State license for raw vegetables
FSMAProduce Safety Rule
CutCut vegetables are prepared food
LocalFarmers market sales
What is covered
YESCovered by this path
- Whole raw vegetables
- Farm stand and farmers market sales
- CSA shares
NONeeds a different path
- Cut or bagged salad mixes
- Vegetables sold as juice
- Resale of others' produce as your own
Three compliance steps
ACheck FSMA
Very small farms are outside the rule
BHandle safely
Potable water, clean containers
CDescribe honestly
Accurate origin labels
Quick reference
| Item | Rule | Regulator |
|---|
| Whole vegetables | No state license for farm sales | MDA |
| Cut vegetables | Licensed facility | MDH |
| FSMA | Very small farms outside the rule | FDA |
| CSA | Raw produce rules | MDA |
| Labels | Not required for raw whole produce | FDA |
FAQ
Do I need a license?
Not for raw whole farm produce in the sources reviewed.
Can I cut vegetables?
Not under cottage law.
Does FSMA apply?
Depends on size.
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