Do you need a license to sell honey in Missouri?

In most cases you can sell pure honey from your own bees in Missouri without a food license.

Home-based food (RSMo §196.298, no income cap since 2022) plus honey-specific §261.241 (honey sales up to $50,000). Infant advisory recommended.

What your Missouri honey label must include

Start with the federal basics that apply in every state:

  • The word "Honey" (you can name the floral source, like "Wildflower Honey", if it is the main source)
  • Net weight in both US and metric, in the bottom 30 percent of the front label
  • Your name and address
  • No ingredient list is needed for pure honey; add one the moment you add anything

Then, for Missouri: "This product has not been inspected by the Department of Health and Senior Services." on the label, with the same statement on a placard at markets (RSMo 261.241). A later amendment may have narrowed this for some sales channels, so check the current statute text.

For the full federal rules, including when a nutrition panel is required, see our honey labeling requirements guide.

The official Missouri source

These rules are set by Missouri Dept of Health & Senior Services (DHSS). This reflects their published guidance; still confirm the current details before printing.

Read the official Missouri guidance.

Quick checklist for Missouri

  • The word "Honey"
  • Net weight in US and metric, bottom 30 percent of the front
  • Your name and address
  • The Missouri statement or disclaimer described above
  • Optional but recommended: "Do not feed honey to infants under one year of age"