Feed and food controls

Date updated: 25/03/2024

The temporary easements agreed at the beginning of the Global Pandemic have ceased to apply. Original certification, as specified in relevant legislation, is now required. Using copy documents will delay Port Health clearance.

High risk feed and food

For imports of High Risk Food Not of Animal Origin (HRFNAO) you will need to submit a Common Health Entry Document (CHED-D) before your consignment arrives at one of our ports. A CHED-D is created in IPAFFS and you must register to create an account. More information about IPAFFS, including how to register is at GOV.UK

The products subject to these controls are listed in Commission Implementing Regulation (EU)2019/1793 which is reviewed regularly to ensure known or emerging risks are controlled.

You must print a hard copy of the CHED-D front page, sign it and send it to the London Port Health Authority office with any supporting documents. A consignment must be pre-notified by at least one working day before it arrives. If you have difficulty completing a CHED-D please contact the Port Health Office. For technical issues concerning IPAFFS please email the Apha Services Desk or call 0330 041 6999.

Some products require a consignment to have both a CHED-D and a health certificate. This is because these products have a history of containing aflatoxins which can cause cancer in humans.

Annex II of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1793 lists products that will need:

A CHED-D
A health certificate
The results of sampling and analysis carried out by the competent authority in the country of origin.

The Food Standards Agency website has more information and advice on importing high risk products and products which may contain aflatoxins.

You can contact the Port Health Office which deals with enquiries for London Gateway, Purfleet, Thamesport and Sheerness ports for advice.

There are additional charges for consignments of 'high risk' food which are on the charges page.