Legislation, advice and guidance for importers

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• Commercial imports - your questions answered

  Frequently asked questions on commercial imports from countries outside the EU (third countries)

• Controls at point of entry into the UK

  Some products can only come into the European Union (EU) through specific ports. For example, animal products (such as meat, dairy foods and fish) can only enter through a port with a Border Inspection Post (BIP). Some other foods that are not of animal origin have similar rules.

• Importing and testing trade samples

  Trade samples of food can be imported for test marketing, research and development, or quality assurance purposes.

• European Commission guidance on imports

  European Commission guidance and interpretation of the rules on hygiene of foodstuffs that came into force on 1 January 2006 is available.

• Legislation for importing food

  Food which is intended for human consumption must meet the general food safety requirements of European Union (EU) law.

• Importing food containing contaminants

  All products imported into the UK must comply with European Union (EU) law on contaminants.

• Importers and enforcement activity complaints

  The relationship between enforcers and importers is generally good and both work together to ensure that the consumer is protected. However, sometimes enforcement activity can cause concern to individuals and commercial enterprises.

• Suppliers and import licences

  Importers must ensure that their goods are safe and legal before they are purchased from producers and imported into the UK.

• Importing irradiated food

  In the UK, local authorities and port health authorities are responsible for controlling imports of irradiated foods, including appropriate testing. Certain foods that have been irradiated may be imported into the UK, as long as they comply with certain rules.

• Imports and food additives

  All products imported into the UK must comply with European Union (EU) law on miscellaneous food additives (e.g. preservatives, antioxidants, colours, sweeteners, flavourings and emulsifiers).

• Imports and food labelling

  The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has responsibility for providing general labelling information in England.