Food Safety

Whatever role you serve at your farmers market, we know that you are not only dedicated to ensuring shoppers have access to delicious, locally grown food and other high-quality products, but that shoppers and the products they purchase are safe. Whether that’s through proper food labeling, temperature-controlled storage, or safe food sampling, it’s important to educate yourself regarding state-specific food safety guidelines and best practices.

Food Safety at the Farmers Market

Product Licensing Guide

Use this resource to determine the general licensing requirements for vendors selling products at the farmers market.

Cooking Demonstration Licensing Options at Michigan Farmers Markets

Licensing requirements for cooking demonstrations at a farmers market will depend on if markets are partnering with a licensed business, if food will be served, and where the food served will be prepared. Learn what license is needed for your cooking demonstration.

MDARD Cooking Demonstration Licensing for Farmers Markets Webinar

This webinar walks through the process for farmers markets applying for a Cooking Demonstration License through the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). You will hear from MDARD and a market manager who has completed the plan review process and licensing application.

Keep It Cool From Farm to Fridge

This printable poster teaches consumers about safe food temperatures at the farmers market.

When to Use Your Handwashing Station at the Farmers Market

When preparing and/or serving food samples at farmers markets, follow these best practices to ensure you are using your handwashing station appropriately.

Setting Up a Hand Washing Station for Cooking Demonstrations

MSU Executive Chef Kurt Kwiatkowski shows you how to set up a simple, affordable hand washing station at any farmers market. This will enable farmers markets to keep their customers safe while complying with MDARD standards.

Ware Washing for Cooking Demonstration at Farmers Markets

MSU Executive Chef Kurt Kwiatkowski shows you how to set up a simple, affordable ware washing station at any farmers market. This will enable farmers markets to keep their customers safe while complying with MDARD standards.

What Should be on a Cottage Food Label?

Learn what to look for on a cottage food label with this simple, informative video.

MDARD Farmers Market Food Safety Resources

A collection of food safety resources from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Safe Food Sampling Guidelines

A food sampling resource from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Providing Safe Food Samples at the Farmers Market

Sampling products at a farmers market can be an excellent way to increase sales by initiating interactions with shoppers passing by, attracting them to your booth, and introducing them to new and unique products. Ensuring the safety of the samples you provide is paramount for the wellbeing of customers and the protection of your business.

Safe Food Sampling Packing List

Use this packing list to ensure safe food sampling at the farmers market.

Cottage Food Basics for Farmers Market Vendors

Learn the basics of safe cottage food with this printable booklet.

Cottage Food Labels: What You Need to Know

Learn about the different requirements of cottage food labels with this convenient infographic.

Wine Sales at Michigan Farmers Markets

This document answers frequently asked questions about wine sales at the farmers market.

Cannabis and Michigan Farmers Markets

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 11/2022

Cannabis Legality Chart

Last updated: 11/2022

Standardized Market Policy Language for Cannabis Products