Yes, unpasteurized cheese is legally permitted in the Czech Republic under strict EU-aligned hygiene regulations, but its sale is heavily restricted. Domestic production of raw-milk cheese is allowed for artisanal producers registered under national schemes, while imports face EU-wide microbiological testing. The State Veterinary Administration (SVA) enforces compliance with Regulation (EC) No 853/2004, with recent 2026 amendments tightening traceability for high-risk products.
Key Regulations for Unpasteurized Cheese in Czech Republic
- Mandatory registration: Artisanal producers must register with the SVA under Hygienický zákon (Act No. 258/2000 Sb.) and comply with HACCP principles for raw-milk products.
- Microbiological limits: Cheeses must meet EU pathogen thresholds (e.g., Listeria monocytogenes <100 CFU/g) as per Regulation (EC) No 2073/2005, with SVA-conducted annual audits.
- Import bans: Third-country cheeses require EU-approved establishments and pre-export health certificates; non-compliant imports are seized at Czech borders (e.g., under Nařízení vlády č. 197/2003 Sb.).
Non-compliance risks administrative fines up to CZK 10 million (≈€400,000) or criminal liability under Trestní zákoník for endangering public health. Retail sales of unpasteurized soft cheeses (e.g., Camembert-style) are prohibited unless aged ≥60 days, per EU derogations transposed into Czech law via Vyhláška č. 132/2004 Sb.