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Luton Borough Council

Advice for travellers

Different rules and restrictions apply depending on the type of food and whether this food has originated from within the EU or from outside the EU.

Personal imports
Different rules and restrictions apply depending on the type of food and whether this food has originated from within the EU or from outside the EU. The controls are important because imported food can present unknown risks to human health and could bring in diseases. For the food to qualify as a personal import it must be food brought into the country for personal use and not for resale to other people. The food could either be brought into the country in person or it could be in the form of a food parcel posted from abroad and addressed to an individual in the UK.
Food originating from within the European Union.
You can bring back a reasonable amount of any food on sale in any EU country. If it is a large amount, you may need to satisfy Customs officers that the food is for your personal use. This also applies to personal imports of fish and shellfish from Iceland and Norway, and to personal imports of meat and milk products from Norway.
Details of the EU Member States can be found on the European Commission website 
Food originating from outside the European Union.
Generally speaking if you travel to most countries outside the European Union, it is illegal to bring meat, meat products, milk and milk-based products for your personal use back into the UK.   
There are also limits on bringing back other food items, including fish, shellfish potatoes, eggs, egg products and honey. If the item is banned, or in an amount greater than that allowed the whole amount will be seized and destroyed. If you do bring food items into the UK and are unsure whether they are allowed, go to the HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) 'Something to Declare' or 'Red Channel' exit for advice and to avoid any penalties. If you have items that are not allowed, they will be taken away and destroyed, and no further action will be taken. If you break the rules and HMRC Officers find undeclared items you could face delays, prosecution and a fine.
For more information see the searchable Imports Rules section on Defra's website
Imports of powdered infant milk, infant food and special foods for medical conditions for personal use are permitted. They must be carried in personal luggage. They must not require refrigeration before opening, and must be commercial brands of products in unbroken packaging.
Restrictions on importing food can often change depending on current circumstances so you should check the up-to-date situation before you travel.

Contact info
Business and Consumer Services
Luton Borough Council, Town Hall, George Street, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2BQ
Tel: 01582 510330

 

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