Yes, Mississippi permits the sale of certain homemade foods under the Mississippi Cottage Food Law (MCA § 75-67-401 et seq.), effective since 2014. Non-perishable items like baked goods, jams, and dried herbs may be sold without a permit, provided labels comply with FDA and Mississippi Department of Health (MSDH) requirements. Direct-to-consumer sales are allowed, but wholesale distribution remains prohibited. Local health departments retain oversight for enforcement.
Key Regulations for Selling Homemade Food in Mississippi
- Permitted Foods: Only non-potentially hazardous foods (e.g., bread, cookies, candy, dried fruits, jams) are exempt from commercial kitchen mandates. Perishable items (e.g., cream pies, custards) require a licensed kitchen.
- Labeling Requirements: Labels must include the product name, ingredients (in descending order), net weight/volume, allergen statements, the producer’s name/address, and the disclaimer: “This product is home-produced and not subject to state inspection.”
- Sales Channels: Direct sales are permitted at farmers’ markets, roadside stands, or online, but not in retail stores or restaurants. Local ordinances may impose additional restrictions; Jackson and Gulfport, for example, require vendor registration.
Local health departments, such as the MSDH’s Environmental Health Division, conduct periodic inspections of cottage food operations. As of 2026, proposed amendments to MCA § 75-67-403 may expand permitted foods to include fermented products, pending legislative approval. Producers should monitor MSDH updates for compliance changes. Failure to adhere to labeling or sales restrictions may result in fines or confiscation of inventory.