Yes, unpasteurized cheese is legal in South Africa but subject to stringent controls under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act, 1972 (Act No. 54 of 1972) and Regulation 962 of 2012. The Department of Health permits its sale only if producers comply with microbiological safety standards, including Listeria monocytogenes testing. Imported unpasteurized cheeses must align with these regulations, while local manufacturers face mandatory registration with the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS). Recent amendments (effective 2026) tighten traceability requirements for raw-milk cheeses, aligning with EU equivalence standards.
Key Regulations for Unpasteurized Cheese in South Africa
- Microbiological Compliance: Cheeses must test negative for Listeria monocytogenes at all stages of production and distribution, per SANS 10330:2021.
- Raw Milk Sourcing: Only dairy from registered, regularly inspected farms is permissible; bulk milk must meet SANS 1049:2011 hygiene standards.
- Labelling and Traceability: Unpasteurized cheeses require explicit “raw milk” labeling and batch-level traceability records, enforced by the NRCS under Act 54.