Missouri
Cottage Food Law
Missouri’s cottage food law (SB 525) went into effect on August 28th, 2014 that allows cottage food operations across the state. Previously, a few counties in Missouri allowed cottage food operations, even though there was no statewide law.
Under this law, individuals can only sell their products directly to consumers, which includes sales from home and at events. They can only sell baked goods, jams, jellies, and dry herbs, which is relatively limited compared to other states. Cottage food operations can sell up to $50,000 of products per year.
Although the law is somewhat limited, it’s a big improvement over the sporadic county ordinances that Missouri’s had in the past.
A new bill (HB 410) was proposed in 2017 which would have allowed online sales, but it never passed through the Senate.
Selling
All sales must be direct (in-person) transactions to the final consumer. Internet sales are specifically prohibited.
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Allowed Foods
Most baked goods that do not require refrigeration are allowed.
Limitations
Business
No permit, inspection, or training from the health department is needed, but there may be other local requirements, such as a business license.
A local health department is not allowed to regulate a cottage food operation, but they can investigate a potential foodborne disease or outbreak.
Labeling
The label must state that the food was not inspected by the state or local health department.
Forrager Cookie Company
123 Chewy Way, Cookietown, MO 73531
Resources
- August 2014
- SB 525
Comments
Michael
So if I’m reading this right, I can not use a commercial kitchen to make my jams to sell directly to a consumer. I must use my home kitchen, and as long as there is proper labeling on the end product, then I’m A-okay?
Jane
What exactly constitutes an online sale? Are google order forms, orders on FB, or via email allowable? What about payment via Paypal, Venmo, etc.? Are all of the above legal as long as the transfer of goods happens in person?
Lisa
Chocolate and Nuts can go bad and chocolate is something that should be climate controlled.
Michael Lococo
Can homemade Peanut Butter be sold?
Angel Washington
does this mean I cannot sell chocolate bread?