An Act regulating cottage foods

This bill regulates cottage food operations in Massachusetts by prohibiting local health and zoning boards from creating their own rules for these businesses. It defines cottage food operations as individuals making specific non-perishable items like baked goods and jams in their home kitchens for direct sale to consumers. The legislation exempts these producers from state licensing, inspection, and most packaging requirements, provided they follow federal allergen labeling rules and include a specific disclaimer on their products. Additionally, the Department of Public Health is tasked with creating an online registry for these operations and issuing updated guidance on acceptable food products every two years.