Michigan direct-to-consumer compliance guide, 2026

Grains & Flour

Dry mixes are cottage foods; milled flour is not named on MDARD's list, so confirm before selling.

Cottage Eligible (Mixes Only)

YesWhat's covered

  • Dry baking mixes and instant bread mixes
  • Repackaged shelf-stable dry bulk mixes
  • Granola and dried pasta
  • Retail sale in Michigan under cottage labeling

NoNeeds a different path

  • Milled flour: not on MDARD's allowed list; ask MDARD
  • Fresh pasta
  • Breads with fresh vegetables or soft cheese
  • Out-of-state shipping under the cottage exemption

Three compliance steps

  1. A

    Separate mixes from milling

    Dry mixes and repackaged dry bulk mixes are named as allowed. Milling grain into flour for sale is not listed, so ask MDARD in writing.

  2. B

    Call MDARD for the flour answer

    Phone 800-292-3939 and describe your mill. If MDARD says it is not a cottage food, apply for a food establishment license.

  3. C

    Label and warn

    Use the cottage statement and list allergens. Wheat flour is a major allergen. A raw-flour note not to eat it uncooked is sensible.

Quick reference

ItemRuleRegulator
Dry baking mixesAllowed as cottage foodMDARD
Instant bread mixesAllowedMDARD
Milled flourNot named on the allowed list: confirm with MDARDMDARD
Fresh pastaNot allowedMDARD
Buying grain from growersMDARD licenses grain dealersMDARD
Sales taxPackaged dry food generally exemptMI Treasury

Frequently asked questions

Is flour a cottage food in Michigan?

MDARD's published list does not name it. Get a written answer before selling.

Can I sell whole grain berries?

They are raw agricultural commodities; ask MDARD how your sales channel is classified.

Do I need a grain dealer license?

That license is for dealers who buy grain from producers, not for selling your own packaged product.

Printable checklist