Yes, unpasteurized cheese is legal in Maine but subject to strict state and federal dairy safety standards. Maine aligns with FDA regulations, permitting aged raw milk cheeses (60+ days) while banning fresh or soft varieties. The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (MDACF) enforces these rules, with recent 2026 updates tightening import documentation for interstate sales.
Key Regulations for Unpasteurized Cheese in Maine
- Aging Requirement: Only raw milk cheeses aged ≥60 days are permitted under 21 CFR §133, enforced by MDACF’s Dairy Inspection Program.
- Labeling Compliance: Cheeses must display “made from raw milk” and origin details per FDA Food Labeling Regulations (21 CFR Part 101).
- Interstate Sales: Shipments require prior MDACF approval and adherence to the 2026 FDA Model Food Code revisions for raw dairy imports.