Requirements for Importing Cheese from Mexico to the U.S.

Importing cheese from Mexico involves compliance with FDA (food safety/labeling) and USDA (animal health/dairy standards) regulations. Key steps:

1. FDA Compliance

• Register as a food importer with FDA.
• Submit Prior Notice of each shipment before arrival.
• Ensure labels meet FDA requirements (ingredients, nutrition, allergens, English).
• Obtain a Certificate of Free Sale from Mexican authorities.

2. USDA Requirements

• Mexican government health certificate: cheese free of animal diseases, from approved establishments.
• USDA inspection at U.S. port of entry.
• Compliance with dairy pasteurization, milk sourcing, and processing standards.

3. Customs Clearance

• Commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, health certificate, permits.
• Pay applicable duties (varies by cheese type; many under USMCA qualify for zero duty).

4. Post-Entry

• FDA may sample/test for pathogens (Listeria, Salmonella, etc.).
• Maintain records ≥1 year (invoices, certificates, lab results).

Pro Tips

• Work with a licensed customs broker experienced in dairy.
• Verify Mexican producer is on FDA's approved foreign facility list.
• Monitor FDA alerts for Mexican cheese recalls.

Regulations change; always confirm current requirements with FDA/USDA before shipping.