Cottage Food Laws in Minnesota (2026)
Complete guide to Minnesota's cottage food laws: $78,000 per year (gross receipts) annual limit, registration required, and online sales allowed.
Minnesota has a two-tier registration system based on sales volume. Tier 1 (≤$7,665) requires annual online training. Tier 2 ($7,666-$78,000) requires a $50 fee and food safety course every 3 years. Person who makes the food must be the same person who sells and delivers it. Pet treats for dogs/cats are uniquely allowed. Revisions passed in 2025 take effect August 1, 2027.
Quick Facts for Minnesota
Annual Sales Limit
$78,000 per year (gross receipts)
Registration/Permit
Required — Must register annually with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Tier 1 (≤$7,665/year): Free registration, online training and exam required yearly. Tier 2 ($7,666-$78,000/year): $50 registration fee, approved food safety course required every 3 years.
Kitchen Inspection
No inspection required
Food Handler Certification
Yes — food safety course required
Online Sales
Yes — online ordering allowed
Governing Agency
Legislation: Minnesota Statute § 28A.152 (Cottage Foods Exemption)
What You Can Sell in Minnesota
Allowed Products
- Baked goods
- Jams and jellies (certain types)
- Home-canned pickles, vegetables, and fruits (pH ≤ 4.6, water activity ≤ 0.85)
- Other non-potentially hazardous foods
- Home-processed pet treats (dogs and cats only)
Not Allowed
- Foods requiring time/temperature control
- Meat, poultry, seafood
- Dairy products
- Foods with pH > 4.6 or water activity > 0.85
- Any food requiring a food license
Where You Can Sell in Minnesota
Labeling Requirements in Minnesota
Every product you sell must include these on the label:
How to Start a Cottage Food Business in Minnesota
Verify your products are allowed
Minnesota allows specific non-potentially-hazardous foods. See the allowed products list above. If your product isn't listed, check with Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
Complete required food safety training
Minnesota requires a food handler certification or food safety course. These are typically available online for $10-$30.
Register with your state
Must register annually with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Tier 1 (≤$7,665/year): Free registration, online training and exam required yearly. Tier 2 ($7,666-$78,000/year): $50 registration fee, approved food safety course required every 3 years.
Set up proper labeling
Minnesota requires specific label elements on every product. See the labeling requirements section above for the exact list.
Start selling
Begin selling at approved venues in Minnesota. Track your sales to stay within the $78,000 per year (gross receipts) annual limit.
Need more help?
Ask our AI assistant about Minnesota's specific cottage food requirements, labeling rules, and selling venues.
Chat with AI AssistantCottage food laws change frequently. This guide is for informational purposes only. Always verify current requirements with Minnesota's department of agriculture or health department before starting a cottage food business.