Yes, selling homemade food in Mexico is permitted under strict conditions outlined by the Ley General de Salud and local sanitary regulations. The 2023 amendments to NOM-251-SSA1-2023 require compliance with hygiene standards, while municipalities like Mexico City enforce additional permits through the Secretaría de Salud local. Microbusinesses may operate under simplified schemes, but failure to register risks fines or closure.
Key Regulations for Selling Homemade Food in Mexico
- Sanitary Registration: All homemade food vendors must obtain a Registro Sanitario de Establecimiento from COFEPRIS or local health authorities, verifying compliance with NOM-251-SSA1-2023 hygiene protocols. Exemptions apply only to non-perishable goods sold in sealed packaging.
- Zoning and Permits: Municipal governments (e.g., Gobierno de la Ciudad de México) issue Licencia de Funcionamiento permits, often restricted to residential zones. Street vendors face stricter scrutiny under Reglamentos de Mercados y Vendedores Ambulantes.
- Labeling and Ingredients: Pre-packaged foods require bilingual (Spanish/indigenous language) labels listing allergens, expiration dates, and nutritional data per NOM-051-SCFI/SSA1-2010. Homemade perishables sold directly to consumers must display “Elaborado en casa” with preparation dates.
Note: The 2026 federal Ley de Economía Circular will further tighten waste management requirements for food vendors, mandating compostable packaging for certain products. Consult local Juntas de Vecinos for microbusiness incentives or restrictions.