Missouri Direct-to-Consumer Guide 05 of 24
Canned Goods
Home-canned and commercially processed foods
Licensed Facility Required
4.6pH line for acidified foods
21 CFR 114/113Acidified and low-acid rules
JamsOnly jams and jellies qualify as cottage
PHFLow-acid canning is not cottage
What is covered, and what needs a different path
Covered
- Jams and jellies under the cottage statute
- Commercially processed acid foods in a licensed kitchen
- Process-authority-reviewed recipes
Needs a different path
- Home-canned vegetables, soups, meats
- Low-acid foods without a scheduled process
- Resale through retail or restaurants
Three compliance steps
ASort by acidity
Jams and jellies are the cottage item; everything else is acidified or low-acid canned food.
BUse a process authority
Acidified and low-acid foods need a scheduled process from a recognized authority.
CLicense the facility
Process in an inspected kitchen and register with FDA if you manufacture for commerce.
Quick reference
| Item | Rule | Regulator |
|---|
| Jams and jellies | Cottage food, labeled | RSMo 196.298 |
| Pickles and salsas | Acidified food rules; licensed kitchen | FDA / DHSS |
| Low-acid vegetables | Low-acid canned food rules; process filing | FDA |
| Labeling | Ingredients, net weight, name and address | FDA / MDA |
| Sales tax | Retail sales are taxable; Missouri sales tax license, state plus local rate | MO DOR |
FAQ
Can I sell home-canned green beans?
No. Low-acid canning is not covered by the cottage statute.
Who gives process approval?
A recognized process authority, often a university extension lab.
Is FDA registration needed?
Manufacturers generally register; farms and retail are exempt.
Printable checklist
- Test pH of each recipe
- Get process authority letter
- Use inspected kitchen
- Label ingredients and weight
- File FDA forms if required
- Register for sales tax