Nigerian travellers planning to visit the UK are reminded of strict food import restrictions prohibiting certain items from being brought into the country.
These rules protect public health, prevent disease outbreaks, and ensure agricultural safety.
Authorities have warned that failing to follow these regulations may result in food being confiscated at the airport, causing frustration and disappointment for travelers. Understanding these rules can help visitors avoid such issues.
Restricted Foods Nigerians Cannot Bring to the UK
Meat and Dairy Products
Bringing meat and dairy products from Nigeria into the UK is strictly prohibited.
This measure is in place to prevent Foot and Mouth Disease. Prohibited items include:
- Raw, cooked, or processed meats, including beef, goat, chicken, and suya (spiced grilled meat).
- Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, butter, and yogurt.
- Traditional Nigerian meat-based dishes like kilishi (dried spicy beef) and nkwobi (cow foot in spicy sauce
- Meat-filled pastries such as meat pie and sausage rolls.
Fish and Seafood Products
Certain fish and seafood items are permitted, but they must be fully processed, packaged, and free from contamination. However, restrictions apply to:
- Fresh or raw fish unless gutted and cleaned.
- Smoked or dried fish if not commercially packaged.
- Crayfish and prawns that fail to meet UK health standards.
- Popular Nigerian delicacy stockfish (dried cod) unless it complies with import certification requirements.
Fruits, Vegetables, Nuts, and Seeds
Strict regulations also apply to fresh fruits, vegetables, and plant-based foods to prevent the introduction of pests and plant diseases. Items that are banned include:
- Fresh fruits such as mangoes, oranges, and pawpaw (papaya) unless they meet phytosanitary certification standards.
- Fresh vegetables, including ugu (fluted pumpkin leaves), bitter leaves, and scent leaves.
- Unless they are commercially packaged and processed, raw or unprocessed nuts and seeds, such as groundnuts (peanuts) and melon seeds (egusi).
Travelers are advised to review UK import guidelines carefully to avoid the inconvenience of losing valuable food items and facing potential penalties.
