Two Frameworks for Honey
If you keep your own bees, many states have a specific beekeeper exemption — separate from cottage food law — with its own rules. If you buy honey wholesale and resell it (with or without infusions), you are more likely subject to cottage food law or food processor regulations.
The Beekeeper Exemption
States including Florida, Georgia, Texas, Virginia, and Michigan have beekeeper exemptions allowing direct sales of honey with minimal licensing. These exemptions often predate cottage food laws and have different (sometimes more permissive) terms. Check your state's apiary/beekeeper division, not the cottage food division.
Honey Infusions and Value-Added Products
Infused honeys (herb-infused, hot honey, flavored honey) may fall under cottage food law rather than the beekeeper exemption. Confirm with your state. Hot honey (chile-infused) is very popular at markets and is generally shelf-stable.
Raw vs. Processed Honey Labeling
If you label honey as "raw," some states have specific requirements about what that claim means. Processed honey (pasteurized, ultrafiltered) has different labeling requirements. Most cottage honey sellers sell raw honey and should understand their state's raw honey labeling rules.