No, unpasteurized cheese is illegal in India under the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulations, which mandate pasteurization for dairy products to mitigate microbial risks. Imported unpasteurized cheeses face stringent border controls, while domestic production is prohibited unless exempt under specific FSSAI guidelines.
Key Regulations for Unpasteurized Cheese in India
- FSSAI Standards (2024): Cheese must comply with FSS (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011, requiring pasteurization (or equivalent treatment) to ensure safety. Unpasteurized variants are classified as “unsafe” under Section 3.1.12.
- Import Restrictions: The FSS (Import) Regulations, 2020 prohibit unpasteurized cheese imports unless accompanied by a health certificate from the exporting country’s competent authority, verifying pasteurization or equivalent processing.
- State-Level Enforcement: Local food safety officers (under FSS Act, 2006) conduct raids on unauthorized sales, with penalties up to ₹5 lakh ($6,000) for violations. Recent 2026 draft amendments propose stricter penalties for non-compliant dairy products.
Exemptions exist for traditional cheeses like Parmesan or Gorgonzola if aged ≥60 days (per FSSAI’s 2023 clarification), but these require prior approval. Retailers and manufacturers must display FSSAI licenses prominently; failure risks suspension.