Yes, unpasteurized cheese is legal in Sweden but subject to stringent EU-aligned controls enforced by the Swedish Food Agency (Livsmedelsverket). Domestic production of raw-milk cheese is permitted if aged ≥60 days, aligning with Regulation (EC) No 853/2004, while imports face additional microbiological testing under Sweden’s 2024 Livsmedelsverkets föreskrifter (LIVSFS 2024:X). Compliance hinges on producer registration and hazard analysis critical control points (HACCP) documentation.
Key Regulations for Unpasteurized Cheese in Sweden
- Aging Requirement: Raw-milk cheeses must undergo ≥60 days of maturation at ≥5°C to mitigate Listeria monocytogenes risks, per EU hygiene regulations. Domestic producers must document temperature logs and pH levels during aging.
- Microbiological Testing: Imported unpasteurized cheeses require pre-shipment E. coli and Salmonella testing, with Swedish border inspections conducted by the Tullverket and Livsmedelsverket. Positive results trigger immediate detention under Regulation (EU) 2017/625.
- Producer Registration: All raw-milk cheese manufacturers must register with Livsmedelsverket and submit quarterly HACCP reports. Non-compliance risks fines up to SEK 100,000 (≈€9,000) under the Livsmedelslagen (2021:998).