Bill > SB838

This bill modifies the regulations for small-scale food businesses operating from home in Maryland. It broadens the definition of "cottage food product" to include "nonpotentially hazardous" foods, which are less likely to cause foodborne illness, as determined by the Maryland Department of Health, instead of the stricter "nonhazardous" category. The bill also establishes a new category called "home bakery," defining it as a business operating from a residential kitchen that produces baked goods, sells them according to specific rules, and has annual revenues not exceeding $50,000. Crucially, home bakeries are now exempt from needing a license from the Maryland Department of Health under certain conditions, provided they comply with labeling requirements and food safety standards. The bill also clarifies that both cottage food businesses and home bakeries are not considered "food processing plants" or "food service facilities" under current law, and it applies existing provisions for cottage food businesses to these new home bakeries, including requirements for product labeling and the possibility of inspections by the Department of Health.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0838?ys=2026RS