Yes, unpasteurized cheese is legal in Maryland under strict state and federal regulations. The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) aligns with FDA standards, permitting aged raw milk cheeses (60+ days) while banning fresh or soft varieties. Recent 2026 compliance updates emphasize traceability and labeling for imported raw milk cheeses, reflecting heightened federal scrutiny.
Key Regulations for Unpasteurized Cheese in Maryland
- Aging Requirement: Only unpasteurized cheeses aged ≥60 days are permissible, per MDH and FDA 21 CFR §133.182. Shorter-aged cheeses face automatic prohibition due to Listeria monocytogenes risks.
- Labeling Mandates: All raw milk cheeses must display “UNPASTEURIZED” in bold, 12pt font, with origin and producer details. MDH’s 2025 guidance aligns with FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) traceability rules.
- Import Restrictions: Cheeses from non-FDA-approved facilities require pre-market approval. Maryland’s 2026 inspection protocol mirrors USDA’s “Cheese Safety Initiative,” targeting high-risk imports.