Why Some States Are Banning Certain European Cheeses Without Telling You

There are few things as quietly political, as unexpectedly controversial, as cheese. Behind every wedge of soft French brie or rustic Italian pecorino lies a deep cultural story, one that crosses borders, defines identity, and occasionally sparks legal skirmishes.

In recent years, American consumers with refined palates have noticed something troubling. A growing number of beloved European cheeses, long available at boutique counters and farmers’ markets, are vanishing without warning.

The 60 Day Aging Rule

Cheeses like Brie de Meaux or Reblochon are aged less than 60 days, making them automatically ineligible for legal import under U.S. federal food law. States enforce these rules quietly through retail compliance.

Bacterial Concerns

Health agencies cite risks of listeria and salmonella in unpasteurized cheeses. This concern, although contested in Europe, is enough to block many imports before they reach American shelves.

Limited FDA Approvals

Each cheese must meet FDA import standards, which are not universally applied or easily navigated by small European producers. Without approval, a cheese cannot enter commerce.

Related: 25 Recipes Air Fryer Fans Will Obsess Over

Import Detention Lists

The FDA maintains lists of detained imports. Mimolette, Morbier, and even Roquefort have appeared, often flagged for innocuous traits such as rind texture or bacterial presence that is perfectly legal abroad.

Transport Temperature Requirements

Strict cold chain protocols must be followed to the letter. A minor lapse in refrigeration during shipment can result in entire batches being denied entry.

Related: 25 Vegetable Side Dishes That’ll Upgrade Any Meal

Microbiome Misunderstanding

Live cultures, essential to flavor and development, can trigger bans if misunderstood as contamination. The science is complex, and regulators sometimes err on the side of rejection.

Related Post: 25 Surprisingly Easy Side Dishes for BBQ Even Kitchen Haters Can Handle

Sign up now to receive our exclusive e-cookbook filled with top-rated recipes for FREE!

The banning of European cheeses across some American states is not always loud or obvious. It is regulatory, quiet, and wrapped in the language of public safety. But behind the bureaucratic reasoning lies a loss of flavor, heritage, and connection to centuries of artisanal craft. When a cheese disappears, so too does a thread of cultural memory.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

These 6 States Have The Most Expensive Grocery Stores And Here’s Why

From milk and eggs to cereal and produce, grocery costs are not the same across America. In fact, some states routinely pay far more than others, and the reasons go beyond inflation.

Geography, shipping routes, real estate, and even shopping culture all play a role. These six states top the list for high prices, and locals are feeling it at the checkout.

Read it here: These 6 States Have The Most Expensive Grocery Stores And Here’s Why

How to Save $100+ Every Month at the Grocery Store

From planning your meals to avoiding sneaky upcharges in the snack aisle, here’s a realistic guide to trimming your food budget without adding stress to your week.

Read it here: Things Moms Waste Money On (and Don’t Even Know It)

Is Walmart+ Still Worth It in 2025? The Truth After 3 Years

Is the new Walmart Plus worth the annual fee or is it just another failed version of Amazon Prime? I spent my own money trying this service out for 12 months and counting. I have a lot to say about the benefits and drawbacks in this Walmart+ honest review.

Read it here: Is Walmart+ Worth It? Honest Review 3 Years Later!