Yes, unpasteurized cheese is legal in Colorado under strict state and federal regulations. Colorado aligns with FDA standards, permitting raw-milk cheese aged ≥60 days, while local health departments enforce additional inspections. Recent 2026 CDPHE guidance tightens traceability for artisanal producers.
Key Regulations for Unpasteurized Cheese in Colorado
- Aging Requirement: Only raw-milk cheese aged ≥60 days may be sold, per Colorado Retail Food Establishment Rules (6 CCR 1010-2).
- Licensing & Inspection: Producers must obtain a Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) license and pass bi-annual inspections under the 2023 Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) alignment.
- Labeling Mandates: Cheese must display “Made from Raw Milk” in 12pt font, with origin and producer details, as per 2024 FDA guidance adopted by the Colorado Department of Agriculture.
Local health departments (e.g., Denver Environmental Health) conduct unannounced checks for compliance with temperature logs and pathogen testing. Violations trigger immediate embargo under Colorado’s 2025 Food Safety Act. Imported raw-milk cheese requires USDA certification and additional CDPHE import permits.