Importing foodstuffs

Foodstuffs are products that are intended to be eaten or drunk by humans. The importation of foodstuffs is regulated by a large number of EU regulations, and there are several authorities in Sweden that monitor and enforce the regulations.

Foodstuffs may be processed or unprocessed.

Foodstuffs are often divided into two main categories: foodstuffs of animal origin and foodstuffs of vegetable origin. Foodstuffs of animal origin are derived from animals, such as meat, fish, milk and eggs, as well as products that contain such products. All other foodstuffs are of vegetable origin.

Chewing gum and in some cases water are considered to be foodstuffs.

Applicable rules when importing foodstuffs

Importing foodstuffs is subject to a large amount of EU legislation. The reason for the comprehensive set of regulations is the EU:s mission to protect EU citizens from price dumping, as well as diseases and vermin. They are also in place to protect endangered wild fauna and flora.

Several authorities, for example the Swedish Food Authority, the Swedish Board of Agriculture and Swedish Customs are jointly responsible for the regulations. The website verksamt.se contains information from these authorities about considerations when importing foodstuffs.

Information from the authorities about importing foodstuffs on verksamt.se.

Importing meat.

Importing Rice.

Authorised banana weighers

When importing bananas you are required to submit a banana weighing certificate. The banana weighing certificate must be issued by an authorised banana weigher. This is an economic actor that has been granted authorisation to weigh fresh bananas.