6 Nigerian Foods Prohibited from Importing to the UK and Their Reasons

Travelers from Nigeria must be cautious about food items prohibited at UK borders. Regulations are in place to protect health and agriculture. Key prohibited items include meat, dairy, unprocessed shellfish, ungutted fish, fresh produce, and raw nuts. Always verify current customs rules and airline guidelines before traveling.

Traveling from Nigeria to the UK can be enjoyable, but travelers must understand the strict food import regulations enforced by UK customs. These regulations protect public health, local agriculture, and help prevent the spread of pests and diseases. Familiarizing yourself with prohibited foods can save you from having your items confiscated and facing fines or delays at the border. It is wise to check with current UK import regulations and airlines, as guidelines may vary and change over time.

Here are six Nigerian foods that are not permitted into the UK:
1. Meat and Meat Products: All types of meat, including raw, cooked, dried, or processed meats, are banned. This encompasses beef, chicken, goat meat, suya, and dishes like nkwobi to prevent outbreaks of animal diseases.
2. Milk and Dairy Products: Items such as milk, cheese, butter, and yogurt cannot be brought, except for unopened, branded powdered infant milk or special medical foods that do not require refrigeration.
3. Unprocessed Shellfish and Snails: Travelers are prohibited from importing raw mussels, oysters, or live snails. If transporting snails, they must be cooked, shelled, and preserved to ensure food safety.
4. Ungutted Fresh Fish: A maximum of 20 kg of fish is permitted, but it must be gutted before travel. Processed fish that is commercially packaged is allowed, along with certain seafood, while whole fresh fish is not.
5. Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Most fresh produce cannot enter the UK without a phytosanitary certificate confirming they are pest and disease free. This includes items like watermelon, pawpaw, and several berries.
6. Raw Nuts and Seeds: Unpeeled, unpackaged, and unprocessed nuts and seeds are not allowed unless accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate. This applies to raw groundnuts, cashews, and melon seeds, as they pose risks of pests or diseases.

In summary, travelers from Nigeria to the UK should be aware of the restrictions on bringing food items such as meat, dairy, unprocessed shellfish, ungutted fish, fresh fruits and vegetables, and raw nuts. Checking for the latest UK import guidelines can help avoid complications during travel. Understanding these regulations ensures a more seamless travel experience, free from unexpected customs issues.

Original Source: businessday.ng