No. Unpasteurized cheese is prohibited for sale in Norway under strict food safety regulations enforced by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet). Importation and domestic production require special permits, with raw-milk cheeses permitted only if aged ≥60 days and certified pathogen-free.
Key Regulations for Unpasteurized Cheese in Norway
- Aging Requirement: Raw-milk cheeses must undergo ≥60 days of maturation to mitigate Listeria monocytogenes risks, per EU-aligned Norwegian regulations (Forskrift om animalske matvarer §6-1).
- Permit System: Commercial sale or import demands prior approval from Mattilsynet, which conducts microbiological testing (e.g., for E. coli, Salmonella) before granting licenses.
- Domestic Exemptions: Small-scale producers (≤500 kg/year) may sell unpasteurized cheese directly to consumers if aged ≥60 days and registered with local municipalities under Lov om matproduksjon.
Post-2023, Norway’s alignment with EU Regulation 2017/625 tightened controls, requiring third-country cheese imports to demonstrate equivalent safety standards. Non-compliant products face immediate seizure. Domestic producers must adhere to Forskrift om hygiene for næringsmidler (Hygiene Regulation), mandating HACCP plans for raw-milk cheeses. Violations incur fines up to NOK 5 million under the Matloven (Food Act).