What types of food am I allowed to prepare?

In 2014, Maryland regulations changed to allow individuals to prepare some food items at home. These foods may only be sold at a farmer’s market or a temporary event such as a fair, festival or similar public event. Cottage foods cannot be sold at a retail store, restaurant or convenience store. Individuals selling cottage foods must follow packaging and labeling rules. Labeling Requirements

Please view our Labeling Requirements page to find a list of items that must be included on the package before it is sold at the market. Labeling Requirements

If samples are given they must be prepackaged at home and labeled according to the labeling rules. Opening packages to give customers samples is not allowed. Labeling Requirements

The Health Department cannot issue a permit for cottage foods. However, if the County Health Department receives a complaint about a cottage food vendor they must investigate and take appropriate action.