Wholesale Manufactured Foods New Business Guide
A Step-by-Step Checklist

Wondering where to start with a new wholesale food processing business in Michigan? This guide will walk you through the entire process step by step and provide the resources you’ll need to help you understand the rules, regulations, procedures, and other requirements. Use the checklist below to work your way through this guide and achieve your goal of opening your business:

•  Learn about the rules and regulations governing manufactured foods in Michigan. Know where to access these rules for your reference.  
•  Know how to prevent foodborne illness and ensure food safety. A Manager's Certification program (e.g., ServSafe) or equivalent such as a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) training program is highly recommended. 
•  Determine which products you will process/manufacture. Certain foods have special requirements.
  • Understand label requirements. 
  • Create a label to present for review during your opening inspection. 
•  Locate a facility for your business. Review building, wastewater and water requirements, then find a location that meets these standards. 
•  Contact your area manufactured food inspector to discuss your proposed business after completing the previous steps. If you are unsure of who your area manufactured food inspector is, contact MDARD directly at 1-800-292-3939. 
•  Apply for the appropriate type of Food Establishment License (Limited Wholesale Food Processor, Wholesale Food Processor, or Food Warehouse) and submit the applicable fees. 
•  After your application has been processed, the area manufactured food inspector will contact you to schedule a pre-licensing inspection. 
•  At the pre-licensing inspection, be prepared to demonstrate your food production process to the manufactured food inspector(s). The area manufactured food inspector(s) will observe the actual process and inspect your facility for compliance with applicable rules and regulations.  
•  Based on the outcome of the inspection, a temporary license may be issued. If a temporary license is issued, the permanent license will be mailed to you. Alternatively, you can access the license via your MiLogin account, the State of Michigan’s digital portal.

Wholesale Food Processing firms are regulated under federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, as well as state laws and regulations. Use the information and links in the following sections to familiarize yourself with the rules that will govern your new business.

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