Planning to travel from Nigeria to Canada and want to bring along some of your favorite local foods? While packing your beloved delicacies might seem like a great idea, not all food items are allowed at international borders.
Canada enforces strict import regulations that prohibit certain foods due to health, safety, and environmental concerns. Failing to declare restricted foods could result in confiscation, hefty fines, or even criminal charges.
Before you travel, it’s crucial to check the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) website, as regulations can change frequently.
If you’re getting ready for your trip, here are eight common food items that Nigerians cannot bring to Canada:
Homemade or Unlabelled Foods
Homemade meals, unlabelled snacks, and repackaged food items are not permitted. Only factory-sealed, clearly labelled products from recognized brands can pass through customs.
Honey and Bee Products
Raw honey, bee pollen, and royal jelly are restricted due to the potential for carrying bacteria and diseases harmful to local bee populations. Processed honey from approved sources may be allowed in small quantities.
Fish and Seafood
Dried catfish, crayfish, and herring are allowed, but fresh or frozen seafood without the proper certification is banned. This restriction helps prevent contamination from bacteria and marine toxins.
Meat and Meat Products
Canada strictly prohibits most meat products, including fresh, dried, smoked, or cured meats such as kilishi, ponmo, sausages, and bacon. Meat-based seasonings and broths are also not allowed, to help prevent the spread of diseases.
Dairy Products
Powdered milk, fresh milk, cheese, butter, and yogurt are not allowed without special permits. These restrictions are in place to protect against disease transmission. However, commercially packaged hard cheeses from approved countries may be allowed in small quantities.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh fruits like apples, oranges, and agbalumo, along with leafy greens and herbs, are banned because they can carry pests and plant diseases. Some dried vegetables, however, are allowed.
Eggs and Egg Products
Raw eggs and egg-based products like custards and mayonnaise are not allowed due to the risk of salmonella and bird flu. Commercially processed egg products, though, may be permitted.
Nuts and Seeds
Unroasted nuts, such as raw peanuts, cashews, and sunflower seeds, are prohibited to prevent pest infestations. Roasted, salted, or processed nuts are generally allowed.
