Can you enter the UK with food?


Can you enter the UK with food? If you are travelling within the EU, you can bring in any food products – as long as they are free from diseases and for your own consumption. But if you are travelling from a country outside the EU, many animal products are banned – with a few exceptions detailed opposite.


Can I travel with my own food?

Solid food items (not liquids or gels) can be transported in either your carry-on or checked bags within the continental United States. Liquid or gel food items larger than 3.4 oz are not allowed in carry-on bags and should be placed in your checked bags if possible.


What foods can you not bring into the UK?

You cannot bring in:
  • meat or meat products.
  • milk or milk-based products, except powdered infant milk, infant food or special food (including pet food) needed for medical reasons.


Do you have to declare food at customs UK?

It is important that you declare any food products that you are bringing in from outside the EU. If you are unsure about any of the food products you are bringing in, speak to a Customs Officer in the red channel or on the red point phone.


How much food can you travel with?

Surprisingly, the TSA allows almost all food items through the security checkpoint, so long as none of them are liquids in amounts exceeding 3.4 ounces. This means you can even bring pies and cakes with you through the checkpoint—though they will be subject to additional screening.


Can we carry food in UK international flights?

You can take solid foods like sandwiches, biscuits, fruit, nuts, etc. on board but the same restrictions for liquids apply to liquid foods, e.g. drinks, soups, sauces, jam or jelly (see guidance above).


Do you have to declare food in checked luggage?

Yes, you may pack food in your carry-on or checked bag, but remember all food must undergo x-ray screening. Foods that are liquids, gels, or aerosols must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule. TSA officers make the final decision on whether certain items are permitted into the secured areas of the airport.