Maine Cottage Food Laws

• Baked goods that don't require refrigeration (cookies, breads, muffins, biscotti)
• Candies, chocolates, and confections
• Jams, jellies, and preserves (high-acid fruits)
• Dry goods (granola, trail mix, dry herb blends, popcorn)
• Roasted coffee beans and dry tea blends
• Dried pasta and dehydrated foods

• Foods that require refrigeration (cream-filled pastries, cheesecake, custard pies)
• Meat, poultry, and seafood products
• Low-acid canned goods (canned vegetables, salsa in some states)
• Dairy products such as fresh milk, butter, or soft cheeses

• Name and address of the cottage food operation
• Common name of the product
• Complete ingredient list in descending order by weight
• Allergen disclosure (milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, sesame)
• Net weight or volume
• A disclaimer such as "Made in a home kitchen that is not subject to state inspection"

• Direct in-person sales to consumers
• Farmers markets and community events
• Online ordering with local pickup or hand delivery
• Roadside stands and home-based pickup

• No wholesale sales to restaurants or grocery stores
• Sales typically limited to in-state customers only
• Mail order or interstate shipping is usually not allowed
• Cannot operate as a retail food establishment from your home

Always verify the current law with the official Maine agency before launching. Laws change.