Travel: What food and plants can you carry in your luggage to EU countries?

Traveling to the European Union (EU) comes with a variety of rules and regulations, particularly when it comes to bringing food products in your baggage. The EU has strict guidelines to prevent the spread of diseases and pests, which can impact local agriculture and ecosystems.

This article provides a concise overview of the types of plant and animal products that are permitted, helping you avoid any unpleasant surprises at customs and ensuring a smooth journey. Whether you’re carrying a small snack or specialty items from home, understanding these regulations is essential for all travelers.

Good to Know

Check the websites of the respective airlines for any specific interdictions.

Try to avoid carrying items resembling a white powder. Example: Powdered dry coconut, rice powder, Maida, etc.

Which plants and plant products are authorized for entry into the EU?

Vegetables
Products concernedNon-EU travellers (including UK)
Bananas, durians, coconut, pineapple and datesAllowed without phytosanitary certificate and without any limit on quantity
Plants and plant products (including potatoes for consumption)
Allowed:
– on presentation of a phytosanitary certificate issued by the third country of origin, without limitation of quantity
– and for plants intended for planting, health control on arrival in the territory of the European Union
Fruits and Vegetables
Flowers and flower buds
Fresh and frozen fruit
Fresh or frozen root vegetables (yam, cassava, ginger, etc.)
Soil and other substrates
Not allowed
Vines and citrus fruit plants
Potatoes for planting purposes

Which animal products are prohibited and which are allowed to enter the EU?

Fish filet
Products concernedNon-EU travellers (including UK)
Meat (from a butchery shop or wild)
Not allowed
Meat products (foie gras, pâté, sausage)
Milk
Milk products (yoghurt, cheese, butter)
Powdered milk for infants, infant foods & special foods required for medical reasonsAllowed up to 2kg
Fresh or eviscerated fishery products or processed fishery products (fresh or dried fish, shellfish, crustaceans)Allowed up to 20kg
Other animal products (honey, snails)Allowed up to 2kg
Pet food required for medical reasonsAllowed up to 2kg

Sources & References

  • Customs: What products are prohibited from being brought to France? servicepublic.fr
  • Quelles denrées alimentaires et quels végétaux pouvez-vous transporter dans vos bagages ? douane.gouv.fr

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