Yes, unpasteurized cheese is legal in Puerto Rico under strict conditions aligned with U.S. federal standards and local enforcement by the Departamento de Salud de Puerto Rico (PR DOH). The territory mirrors FDA regulations, permitting raw-milk cheese aged ≥60 days, with additional labeling and inspection mandates enforced by the Oficina de Normas y Tecnología (PR ONT). Recent 2026 compliance shifts emphasize traceability systems for artisanal producers.
Key Regulations for Unpasteurized Cheese in Puerto Rico
- Aging Requirement: Raw-milk cheese must be aged ≥60 days at ≥35°F (1.7°C) per FDA equivalency, verified by PR DOH inspections. Artisanal producers face quarterly temperature logs.
- Labeling Mandates: Cheese must display “Made from raw milk” in Spanish (“Elaborado con leche cruda”) and origin details, per PR ONT’s 2025 labeling guidelines.
- Producer Registration: All sellers require Registro Sanitario from PR DOH, with annual renewals. Imported cheese needs FDA certification and Puerto Rican customs pre-clearance.
Violations trigger immediate seizure under Reglamento 7636 (PR DOH), with fines up to $5,000 for repeat offenses. Exemptions exist for hard cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano, but local dairies must comply with Ley 472-2000 (Puerto Rico Milk Industry Act).