Missouri Cottage Laws
Dreaming of turning your kitchen into a small business? Missouri's cottage food laws might be your ticket to success! Let's break down everything you need to know in simple terms.
What Can You Make and Sell?
Missouri keeps things pretty straightforward. You can only make and sell three types of foods under the cottage food law:
1. Baked Goods
- Cookies, cakes, breads, muffins
- Danish, donuts, pastries, pies
- Basically anything you bake in your oven
2. Canned Jams and Jellies
- Traditional fruit jams and jellies
- But NOT “sugar-free” or “no sugar added” versions
- And definitely not hot pepper jams
3. Dried Herbs and Herb Mixes
- Single herbs or herb blends
- Must be properly dried
That's it! If it's not on this list, you can't sell it under Missouri's cottage food law.
What You CAN'T Make
This is where Missouri gets strict compared to other states. You cannot make or sell:
- Anything with fresh fruit as a topping or filling
- Cream pies, meringue pies, or anything with dairy
- Pickles, salsa, or BBQ sauce
- Candy, chocolate, or fudge
- Anything with meat, eggs, or dairy
- Cut fruits or vegetables
- Fermented foods
- Pet treats
Why so strict? These foods can harbor dangerous bacteria if not prepared in commercial kitchens with proper equipment and temperature controls.
The Money Side: No Limits!
Here's some great news: Missouri removed the old $50,000 annual sales limit in 2022. You can now make as much money as your heart desires (and your kitchen can handle)!
Where Can You Sell?
You have several options for selling your cottage food products:
From Your Home
- You can sell directly from your house, including taking online orders for pickup or delivery within Missouri
At Events
- Farmers markets
- Church bake sales
- Craft fairs and festivals
- Roadside stands
Online Sales
- As of 2022, you can sell online and ship within Missouri
- Social media platforms work great for this
Important rule: You can only sell directly to customers (not to stores or restaurants), and everything must stay within Missouri.
Who Can Sell Your Products?
Only you or an immediate family member living in your household can sell your cottage food products. This person must have extensive knowledge about what you're selling so they can answer customer questions.
Labeling Requirements: What Goes on the Package
Every item you sell must have a clear, readable label with:
- Your full name and address
- Product name (what it is)
- All ingredients listed by weight, heaviest first
- Net weight of the product
- Allergen information (if any of the top 9 allergens are present)
- This exact statement: “This product is prepared in a kitchen that is not subject to inspection by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services”
Getting Started: The Easy Steps
Step 1: Make sure your product fits the allowed categories Step 2: Check with your local health department about any additional local rules Step 3: Create proper labels for your products Step 4: Start small and build your customer base Step 5: Consider getting a business license from your city (requirements vary)
No Permits or Inspections Required
Unlike many states, Missouri doesn't require cottage food producers to get permits, take food safety courses, or submit to regular kitchen inspections. You're free to start whenever you're ready!
Food Safety: Your Responsibility
Even though you don't need formal training, food safety should be your top priority. Follow these basics:
- Clean: Wash hands and surfaces frequently
- Separate: Avoid cross-contamination
- Cook: Use proper temperatures
- Chill: Refrigerate promptly when needed
Local Rules May Apply
Here's one important catch: counties and cities can create rules that are MORE restrictive than state law, but not less restrictive. Before you start, call your local health department to ask about any additional requirements in your area.
The Bottom Line
Missouri's cottage food law is both a blessing and a limitation. While you don't need permits or inspections, you're limited to just three types of products. But for bakers who love making traditional baked goods, jams, or herb mixes, it's a fantastic way to start a home-based business.
Ready to get started? The main thing to remember is: keep it simple, keep it safe, and keep it legal. Focus on perfecting your recipes, building your brand, and growing your customer base one delicious bite at a time!
Have questions about Missouri's cottage food laws? Contact your local health department or the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services at (573) 751-6095. Happy baking!
