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Import controls policies

Date updated: 25/03/2024
Please check your port of arrival for its approval status before shipping. Imports arriving at an unapproved port will be rejected.

If you import animal feed or food from non-EU countries you must comply with the law. The general principle is that all products must be safe. For some products there are specific rules and checks.

The London Port Health Authority officers and veterinary surgeons carry out these checks. We use public analysts and food examiners to carry out detailed checks to ensure consignments are safe and comply with legislation.

London Port Health Food Enforcement Services Plan PDF (103KB)
Date submitted: 2/12/19
London Port Health Authority Imported Food Sampling Policy PDF (45KB)
Date submitted: 2/12/19

The imports-exports page on the Government website covers aspects of importing food and products of animal origin. 

The Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) is a system that shares information about rejected consignments between member states. The European Commission RASFF Portal provides non-confidential data on RASFF alerts and notifications can be viewed by the public.