Missouri Direct-to-Consumer Guide 02 of 24
Baked Goods
Breads, cookies and cakes from a home kitchen
Cottage Food Eligible
$0Cap since 2022 per RSMo 196.298
0State permits or inspections
In-stateDirect to consumer only
LabelName, address, not-inspected line
What is covered, and what needs a different path
Covered
- Breads, cookies, cakes without cream fillings
- Items that do not need refrigeration
- Sales direct to the final consumer
Needs a different path
- Cream, custard or meat-filled items
- Resale through stores or restaurants
- Shipping outside Missouri
Three compliance steps
AConfirm the item qualifies
The statute covers non-potentially-hazardous baked goods; if it needs refrigeration for safety it is not a cottage food.
BLabel every package
Your name and address plus a statement that the food is not inspected by the state or the local health department.
CSell direct and in-state
Sell face to face or to Missouri buyers; add sales tax registration.
Quick reference
| Item | Rule | Regulator |
|---|
| Dry baked goods | No license or inspection under RSMo 196.298 | None (statute) |
| Refrigerated fillings | Not a cottage food; licensed kitchen path | DHSS / local health |
| Label statement | Not inspected by DHSS or local health dept. | RSMo 196.298 |
| Wholesale | Removes the cottage exemption | DHSS / local health |
| Sales tax | Retail sales are taxable; Missouri sales tax license, state plus local rate | MO DOR |
FAQ
Is there a sales cap?
Secondary sources report the old $50,000 cap was removed by HB 1697 in 2022; check the current statute text.
Can I sell online?
Reported yes when seller and buyer are both in Missouri; no out-of-state shipping.
Is training required?
No state food safety training was identified for cottage operators.
Printable checklist
- Menu limited to non-refrigerated items
- Label with name and address
- Add not-inspected statement
- Sell direct to consumers only
- Register for sales tax
- Keep ingredient list per order