Other Policies

• All meat for sale must have a label. MDA label requirements here. This link summarizes labeling requirements, the labeling review process, and the submission process.

• Single ingredient label submission form

• Multiple ingredient label submission form

• USDA Food Standards and Labeling Policy book

Here’s an overview of the federal label approval process

• MDA will regularly test for Salmonella, Campylobactor, Listeria, and E. coli

• Facilities must conduct sampling for generic E. coli and Listeria

There are links on the MDA website to sample generic E. coli and Listeria checklists, as well as the USDA federal regulations regarding E. coli and Listeria testing: https://www.mda.state.mn.us/food-feed/pathogen-testing-requirements

• Livestock Meat Packing Company / Meat Packing Agent License

  • This license is for any business that buys livestock on a regular basis

  • Instructions on how to get this licensing here and here

• Custom Exempt Processor

  • Custom Exempt Operations Requirements Checklist

  • Information from the Minnesota e-Licensing website here

• Wholesale Food Processor / Manufacturer

  • This license is for businesses that make food and sell to other businesses for resale

  • Information about this license is here. This is the license for businesses under USDA inspection: Wholesale Food Processor / Manufacturer USDA

• Retail Food Handler

  • This license is required for all businesses that sell products directly to consumers. More information here.

• Food Certificate for Export / Certificate of Free Sale

This certificate is often required for businesses that are exporting products to other states or other countries. More information here.