Yes, unpasteurized cheese is legal in Canada under strict conditions. Health Canada permits its sale if aged ≥60 days at ≥2°C, aligning with CFIA standards. However, raw milk cheeses face heightened scrutiny due to Listeria monocytogenes risks, with mandatory testing and labeling requirements enforced by the CFIA and provincial authorities.
Key Regulations for Unpasteurized Cheese in Canada
- Aging Requirement: Unpasteurized cheese must be aged a minimum of 60 days at ≥2°C to reduce pathogen risks, per Health Canada’s Food and Drug Regulations (FDR), Schedule 4, Part B.
- Inspection & Testing: The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) mandates microbiological testing for E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria in raw milk cheeses, with non-compliant batches subject to recall under the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR).
- Labeling & Traceability: Cheeses must display “made from raw milk” on labels, and producers must maintain traceability records for 12 months, per SFCR 2018-108. Provincial health units (e.g., Ontario’s Health Protection and Promotion Act) may impose additional restrictions.
Recent shifts in 2026 compliance frameworks emphasize risk-based inspections, with the CFIA prioritizing high-risk imports from jurisdictions with weaker pasteurization standards. Domestic producers must also adhere to provincial milk quality programs, such as Quebec’s Laiterie et produits laitiers regulations, which exceed federal minimums. Non-compliance risks fines up to $5M under the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act.