# Cottage food label requirements in Michigan

> Informational only, not legal or food-safety advice. Verify with Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development before printing labels. Last checked 2026-08-05.

## What goes on the label

1. The product name, in words a customer would use.
2. Every ingredient, heaviest first.
3. The major allergens, called out separately from the ingredient list.
4. Who made it: your name or your business name.
5. How to reach you.
6. The date it was made.

## The required statement

As published for Michigan:

> Made in a home kitchen that has not been inspected by the Michigan department of agriculture and rural development.

Published as fixed text: reproduce it exactly.
Minimum type size: 11 point.

## Detail

MCL 289.4102 (Cottage Food Law, PA 113 of 2010 as amended). A cottage food operation is exempt from licensing and evaluation under the Food Law but still bound by its labeling and adulteration provisions. Label must also carry either the business name and address OR the name, telephone number and registration number issued under subsection (8); the product name; ingredients in descending order of predominance by weight; net weight or net volume; federal allergen labeling; and federal nutrition labeling if a nutrition claim is made. Subsection (8) has registration numbers issued through the MSU Product Center with a one-time fee of up to $50 - that is a newer mechanism, so check whether your operation needs one. Local zoning and township ordinances still apply on top of the state rule.

## Sources

- Authority: Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), Food and Dairy Division
- Rule: https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-289-4102