Advice about imports
It's important to control imports to protect the health of people, animals and plants. That's why there are restrictions on the food products that can be imported into the UK and why food imports are checked as they enter the country.
It is the responsibility of the importer to ensure that there are sufficient quality controls in place in the country of origin where the product is produced. It is also up to the importer to ensure that the food they import to the UK is fit for human consumption and that no-one will become ill if they eat it.
The controls on imported food vary depending on the type of food and the part of the world it comes from.
Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC)
It is important to check if the goods you want to import has a commodity code and If it does it will be liable for tax. Importers should therefore contact the Customs Tariff Classification Helpline on 01702 366 077 or Email them at: classification.tso@hmrc.gov.uk
HMRC also runs a helpline giving advice on import duties/tax for some food items. For further information and advice you should contact HMRC on: 0845 010 9000 (this helpline is open Monday to Fridays between 8am and 8pm).
The Rural Payments Agency
You may not need a health or hygiene licence to import food, but many foods from non-EU countries require import licences for trading purposes and may be subjected to quotas. For more information please contact the Trade Enquiry Line on 0191 2265050 or Email them at: tsmu@rpa.gsi.gov.uk
Further Information on the roles and responsibilities for these departments and others can be found at the link at the bottom of the page.
External links The Food Standards Agency has no responsibility for the content of external websites
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Personal imports
A personal import is something that you bring into the country for your own personal use and not to sell to other people.
Trade of food that has come from another EU country
Food coming into the UK from other European Union (EU) Member States is not officially an import. It is subject to free movement of trade between EU countries and not subject to routine checks at UK ports.
Importing food from outside EU
All food imports of products of animal origin, such as meat and dairy products, from countries outside the EU must enter the UK through designated Border Inspection Posts. These are operated by local port health authorities and food enforcement officers from local authorities.
Importing food containing contaminants
All products imported into the UK must comply with European Union (EU) law on contaminants.
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
All food products sold in the UK must comply with general labelling laws, as well as specific rules for some types of product.
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 medical claims
If you import a food that is claimed to treat or prevent a disease, or is used for medical purposes, then it may be considered to be a medicine.
Importing organic food
If you are importing a product that will be sold as organic, you must make sure you comply with the law.
Imports and packaging
There are strict laws within the EU on the materials that are used in food packaging, especially plastics. So, if you are importing a food product into the UK, you must make sure that the packaging complies with these rules.
Hillingdon Council and imported food controls at Heathrow
The Agency has helped produce a Memorandum of Understanding, allowing the London Borough of Hillingdon to undertake additional imported food controls at Heathrow Airport. Previously, responsibility was shared with four other local authorities.
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.
Roles and responsibilities of Government authorities
Roles and responsibilities of Government organisations with an interest in imported food.