Food businesses and entrepreneurs in Michigan should make sure they are staying up to date on proper licensing and following health code and safety procedures to ensure the well-being of their food consumers. For assistance with your food business, the Michigan State University Extension Product Center is a resource for Michigan-based packaged food and beverage manufacturers to develop business plans and understand licensing and regulatory steps for launching food and beverage products.
Business development for food-based products
All food and beverage products (even similar items) may have different regulations depending on what ingredients are used, the location or facility in which it is being produced, the packaging materials used, the distribution or shipping methods, as well as a variety of other factors. Licensing and regulation for food and beverage production in Michigan is administered by Local Health Departments, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), local zoning regulations, and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE).
To guide you through the process of launching your food or beverage business, Michigan State University (MSU) Extension’s Product Center is an organization that brings together on-campus expertise in the sectors of food, agriculture, and natural resources to help entrepreneurs define and launch innovative products. Field-based innovation counselors advise entrepreneurs on a variety of services, including business planning, packaging and labeling rules, licensing and regulatory requirements, marketing, branding, distribution, product testing, and other product development needs.
“Selling Food in Michigan: Quick Reference Guide” is a new user-friendly resource for food businesses in Michigan. More specifically, this tool provides introductory information and additional resource links for food entrepreneurs who want to sell food as a hobby under the Michigan Cottage Food Law or want to launch a new food product for retail or wholesale markets. Created by the Michigan State University Extension Product Center and Food Safety teams, this online resource serves as an archive of information geared towards specific food products, business start-up materials, and regulatory agency information.
Click here to go to MSU Extension's Product Center on food-based products.
Business development for pet food and treats
A license issued by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is required to sell pet food or treats in Michigan. Pet food and treats are not covered by the Michigan Cottage Food Law. MDARD provides information on how to become licensed. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) sets standards for animal and pet feed. The website for AAFCO is strongly recommended to visit and is a helpful resource.
Click here to go to MSU Extension's Product Center on pet foods and treats.