[p2p-research] New laws in Michigan

[Matt]

Michigan's newest laws relating to the sale of home grown foods. I haven't
had time to keep up with it, but my fellow growers there seem to be very
happy with it.

This afternoon, Gov. Jennifer Granholm is to sign into law two cottage food
operation bills that will allow individuals to make or package certain foods
in their kitchens instead of having to use a commercial food operation as
they do now.

Baked goods, jam and jellies, candy, vinegar, dried fruit, herbs and mixes
made in your kitchen could all be sold publicly provided they are properly
labeled to reflect that they are homemade and identify all ingredients under
guidelines provided by the state.

The new measures will allow people to sell their goods publicly at farmers
markets, roadside stands, county fairs, flea markets and festivals without a
state Department of Agriculture license. An individual residence could make
up to $15,000 gross annually from such sales, which could help some families
with good bakers and cooks make ends meet or spur the creation of
entrepreneurs.

Matt