Yes, unpasteurized cheese is legal in Missouri under strict state and federal regulations, provided it meets specific aging and labeling requirements. The Missouri Department of Agriculture enforces federal FDA standards, which permit raw-milk cheeses aged ≥60 days, while local health departments may impose additional county-level inspections for retail sales.
Key Regulations for Unpasteurized Cheese in Missouri
- Aging Requirement: Unpasteurized cheese must be aged ≥60 days at temperatures ≥35°F, aligning with FDA 21 CFR §133.182. Missouri inspectors verify this during routine dairy facility audits.
- Labeling Compliance: Cheeses must display “made from raw milk” in 12-point font on the principal display panel. The Missouri Dairy Products Act (RSMo §196.900) mandates this for all retail sales.
- Distribution Restrictions: Direct-to-consumer sales from licensed farms are permitted under Missouri’s Cottage Food Law amendments (effective 2024), but wholesale distribution requires USDA-approved facilities.
Local jurisdictions, such as St. Louis County, may impose supplementary permits for artisanal producers. The 2026 FDA proposed rule on raw milk cheeses could tighten interstate commerce standards, potentially affecting Missouri’s compliance framework. Always cross-reference with the Missouri Dairy Products Board’s latest guidance.