Thinking of packing some homemade goodies or local delicacies for your trip? Think again! Canada and the UK have strict food import laws to protect public health, agriculture, and the environment. If you bring restricted items, customs could confiscate them—or worse, fine you!
Before you travel, check this list of banned foods to avoid unnecessary stress at the airport.
1. Meat and Meat Products
Banned in: Canada & UK
🔴 Fresh, dried, smoked, or cured meats
🔴 Sausages, bacon, ham, jerky, and biltong
🔴 Meat-based soups, stews, and broths
🔴 Homemade or unpackaged meat products
Why? To prevent the spread of diseases like foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and African swine fever. Some commercially packaged meats may be allowed under strict conditions.
2. Dairy Products
Banned in: Canada & UK
🔴 Fresh milk and cream
🔴 Cheese (unless from approved countries)
🔴 Butter and yogurt
🔴 Ice cream
Why? To stop the spread of bovine tuberculosis and other infections. However, some hard cheeses (like Parmesan) and powdered milk may be allowed.
3. Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Banned in: Canada & UK
🔴 Apples, oranges, bananas, and berries
🔴 Leafy greens, root vegetables, and herbs
🔴 Cut or prepared fruits and veggies
Why? These items may carry invasive pests and plant diseases that could harm local crops. Dried or canned fruits and vegetables are usually permitted.
4. Fish and Seafood
Banned in: Canada & UK (with restrictions)
🔴 Fresh or frozen fish (without certification)
🔴 Shellfish, shrimp, lobster, and crabs
🔴 Smoked or cured fish (varies by source)
Why? To prevent contamination from marine toxins, bacteria, and diseases. Some canned or processed seafood products are allowed under specific guidelines.
5. Eggs and Egg Products
Banned in: Canada & UK
🔴 Raw or fresh eggs
🔴 Egg-based products (mayonnaise, custards, homemade baked goods)
Why? Due to risks of salmonella contamination and bird flu transmission. Commercially processed egg products may be allowed.
6. Honey and Bee Products
Banned in: Canada & UK
🔴 Raw honey
🔴 Royal jelly
🔴 Bee pollen and comb honey
Why? To prevent the spread of bacteria and diseases that threaten bee populations. Processed honey from approved sources may be allowed in small quantities.
7. Nuts and Seeds
Banned in: Canada & UK (with restrictions)
🔴 Raw peanuts, almonds, cashews, and walnuts
🔴 Sunflower seeds and other raw seeds
🔴 Unroasted or unprocessed nuts
Why? Risk of pest infestation and agricultural diseases. Roasted, salted, or processed nuts are usually fine.
8. Homemade or Unlabeled Foods
Banned in: Canada & UK
🔴 Homemade cooked meals
🔴 Unlabeled snacks and processed foods
🔴 Opened or repackaged food items
Why? Items without proper labeling or inspection pose health risks. Factory-sealed, clearly labeled food items from recognized brands are generally allowed.
What Happens If You Bring Banned Foods?
- Customs may confiscate your food
- You could face fines or legal action if you fail to declare items
- You may experience travel delays
To avoid issues, declare your food items upon arrival and check official government websites before traveling. When in doubt, leave it out!