The regulations in Maryland permit individuals to produce specific food items in their home kitchens and sell them directly to consumers. These items, often referred to as cottage foods, typically encompass non-potentially hazardous goods like baked goods, jams, jellies, and certain candies. For instance, an individual could bake and sell cookies at a local farmers market, operating under the framework provided by these rules.
These regulations foster entrepreneurship by lowering the barriers to entry for small-scale food businesses. They allow individuals to generate income from home-based operations, contributing to the local economy and offering consumers access to unique, locally sourced products. Historically, these provisions reflect a movement towards supporting small businesses and recognizing the viability of home-based food production under appropriate safety guidelines.
