Current Law Details
Two tiers: Tier 1 ≤$7,665 (free), Tier 2 $7,666-$78,000 ($50). MAJOR CHANGE COMING: Starting August 1, 2027, shipping will be allowed, fees reduced to $30 for all, and tier system consolidated to single tier (HF 2446, 2025). Currently all delivery must be in-person. Online ordering allowed but fulfillment must be in-person until 2027. Pet treats can be shipped currently (exception).
Registration & Training
📋Registration
- Required
- Yes
- Type
- registration
- Cost
- Tier 1 (≤$7,665): Free; Tier 2 ($7,666-$78,000): $50; After Aug 1, 2027: $30 for all
- Inspection Required
- No
🎓Training
- Required
- Yes
- Type
- Tier 1: Free online training/exam annually; Tier 2: Approved 8-hour food safety course every 3 years
- Cost
- Tier 1: Free; Tier 2: Varies (University of Minnesota Extension and approved providers)
- Validity Period
- Tier 1: Annual; Tier 2: 3 years
Labeling Requirements
Required Statement
"These products are homemade and not subject to state inspection"
Additional Label Elements
- ✓Producer name or business name
- ✓MDA registration number OR home address
- ✓Preparation date (date made)
- ✓Complete ingredients list (descending order by weight)
- ✓Allergen information
Allowed Sales Venues
Direct sales at home, farmers markets, community events, fundraising activities. NO roadside stands, wholesale, or retail stores. Online ordering allowed but must deliver in person (until Aug 1, 2027 when shipping allowed).
Shipping & Delivery
Shipping Options
- In-State
- In-Person Only
- Out-of-State
- Not Allowed
Delivery Methods
- Commercial Carriers
- Not Allowed
- Third-Party Delivery
- Not Allowed
CURRENT: In-person delivery only (except pet treats which can ship). AFTER AUGUST 1, 2027: In-state shipping via mail/commercial delivery allowed. Acidified/canned foods must be made AND sold in Minnesota.
Allowed Foods
Non-potentially hazardous foods with pH ≤ 4.6 OR water activity ≤ 0.85. Allowed: Baked goods, candy, jams/jellies/preserves, acidified/canned foods (pH ≤ 4.6), pickles, salsa, dried fruits/vegetables/herbs/spices/pasta/cereals, honey, icings/frostings, pet treats (dogs/cats only - can ship). Prohibited: Perishables, cream-filled pastries, custard pies, low-acid canned (pH > 4.6), chocolate-covered fruits, meat, dairy, confections with alcohol.
Recent Legislative Updates
HF 2446 / Chapter 34, Article 5
Effective: August 1, 2027
MAJOR EXPANSION: Allows shipping starting Aug 1, 2027; reduces fee to $30; consolidates to single-tier system; enhances training requirements
Tier 1 limit adjustment
Effective: January 1, 2022
Increased Tier 1 threshold from $5,000 to $7,665 based on Consumer Price Index inflation adjustment
Major cottage food law updates
Effective: August 1, 2021
Significant updates to cottage food framework
Important Warnings & Notes
- ⚠️Registration expires December 31 each year - must renew annually
- ⚠️Acidified/canned foods must be made AND sold in Minnesota (cannot cross state lines)
- ⚠️Online ordering allowed but NO shipping until August 1, 2027
- ⚠️Pet treats are the ONLY cottage foods that can currently be shipped
- ⚠️After Aug 1, 2027: All producers will pay $30 fee (no more free Tier 1)
- ⚠️Website must display 'These products are homemade and not subject to state inspection'
Research Sources
This information was compiled from the following sources (Last updated: 2025-10-06):
- •Minnesota Statute 28A.152
- •2025 Minnesota Laws, Chapter 34
- •HF 2446 (94th Legislature, 2025-2026)
- •Minnesota Department of Agriculture - Cottage Food Law Guidance
- •Minnesota Cottage Food Producers Association
Important Legal Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Cottage food laws change frequently and vary by local jurisdiction. Always verify current regulations with your state and local health departments before starting your business.
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