No, unpasteurized cheese is prohibited in Saudi Arabia under SFDA’s 2023 food safety standards, which align with Islamic dietary laws and WHO guidelines. Imports require SFDA certification, while domestic production faces stringent pasteurization mandates. Non-compliance risks fines or seizures.
Key Regulations for Unpasteurized Cheese in Saudi Arabia
- SFDA Resolution 2023-123 bans unpasteurized dairy imports unless pre-approved for religious exemptions (e.g., nisab cheese for Hajj pilgrims).
- Saudi Food Code (SFC) 2024 mandates pasteurization for all soft cheeses (e.g., Brie, Camembert) with ≤50% moisture content.
- Customs Tariff 2026 imposes 20% duty on “high-risk” unpasteurized cheeses, with mandatory lab testing at Jeddah/King Khalid ports.
Local producers must register with the Saudi Industrial Development Fund (SIDF) and submit thermal process validation reports. Religious exceptions exist for nisab cheese under Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) 2025, but only if aged ≥60 days and labeled “Halal for Hajj.” Violations trigger Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) administrative penalties or criminal prosecution under Royal Decree M/11 (2023).