Minnesota direct-to-consumer guide, 2026
Baked Goods
Breads, cookies, bars, and shelf-stable bakes sold straight to the customer.
Cottage Food EligibleWhat is covered and what needs a different path
What’s covered
- Breads, rolls, cookies, bars, muffins, and cakes that need no refrigeration
- Fruit pies and pastries without cream or custard fillings
- Sales at home, farmers markets, community events, or online with in-person handoff
Needs a different path
- Cream pies, cheesecake, custard, and meat-filled items (refrigeration needed)
- Mailing or shipping to customers (not allowed for human food until MDA’s Aug 1, 2027 changes)
- Sales to stores, restaurants, or wholesalers, or over $78,000 a year
Three compliance steps
Check the recipe
Your food must be non-potentially hazardous. If a product needs refrigeration to stay safe, it is out. Water activity must be 0.85 or lower.
Register with MDA
Register every year before selling. Sales of $7,665 or less: free Tier 1 with a yearly MDA training and exam. $7,666 to $78,000: $50 and an approved course every three years. The registration year runs April 1 to March 31.
Label it, post the sign, sell in person
Label each package with your name or business name, address or registration number, date produced, ingredients with allergens, and “These products are homemade and not subject to state inspection.” Post the same statement on a sign or your website. You or an employee must be present at the sale or delivery.
Quick reference
| Item | Rule | Regulator |
|---|---|---|
| Sales cap | $78,000 gross per calendar year per registered person | MDA |
| Registration | Tier 1 free ($7,665 or less); Tier 2 $50 per year | MDA |
| Label | Name, address or reg. number, date, ingredients, allergens, homemade statement | MDA |
| Shipping | Human food may not be shipped now; MDA says allowed from Aug 1, 2027 | MDA |
| Sales tax | Bakery goods are exempt food; prepared food (heated or served with utensils) is taxable | MN Revenue |
Frequently asked questions
Can I sell a buttercream wedding cake?
Only if the recipe is not potentially hazardous. Whipped cream, cream cheese, and custard fillings are, so those need a licensed kitchen.
Do I need an MDA food license for a farmers market?
Not if you are registered and follow the cottage rules. Ask the market and your city about local rules.
What changes in 2027?
MDA says revisions take effect Aug 1, 2027: one tier, a $30 yearly fee, shipping allowed, and advanced training for all.
Printable checklist
- Register or renew (April 1 to March 31 year)
- Finish the Tier 1 exam or Tier 2 course
- Post the homemade sign and web statement
- Track gross sales against $7,665 and $78,000
- Check city or township rules on home sales
- Confirm no refrigerated fillings