Importing through Newhaven Port Health Authority

Information about importing products of animal origin, high-risk foods not of animal origin, organic products and plastic kitchenware from China and Hong Kong through Newhaven Port Health Authority.

The UK Government has reviewed how food is imported into Great Britain (GB). You can find details in The Border Target Operating Model on Gov.uk.

To use our services, email our dedicated Newhaven Port Health Authority office, porthealth@lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk. We will provide you with information on how to register for our service and invoicing facility. Please note we currently require one working day's notice of the importation of food which is:

a product of animal origin or
high risk food not of animal origin

You can find our current fees and charges here.

Products of animal origin

These foods have been placed into high, medium or low categories.

High risk foods not of animal origin

All products imported into Great Britain (GB) must comply with the law on contaminants. These laws are put into place to protect public health.

There are certain types of food which are considered high risk, if you are involved with importing them, then you must be aware of this guidance.

Further information

APHA Vet Gateway: Import information notes from DEFRA containing the import requirements
Model health certificates for exports of live animals and animal products to Great Britain
How to complete a health certificate to export to Great Britain
Products being imported into GB will need to be declared on IPAFSS (Import of products, animals, food and feed system)

Food Standards Agency - additional information

Find additional information on the requirements to import products of animal origin, products not of animal origin, fishery products and animal feed into the UK:

Importing polyamide and melamine plastic kitchenware from China and Hong Kong

For advice on how to import polyamide and melamine plastic kitchenware from China and Hong Kong to GB, please read the following guidance:

Importing plastic kitchenware from China and Hong Kong | Food Standards Agency

To import plastic kitchenware originating in or consigned from China and Hong Kong you will need to submit a declaration and a laboratory report for each consignment. The declaration and reports must confirm that the consignment meets the requirements concerning the release of primary aromatic amines and formaldehyde.

Please use the following forms to pre-notify us at least two working days in advance of the estimated date and time of physical arrival of consignments:

Advice on completion of plastic declaration document (PDD) (PDF, 119 KB)

Plastic declaration document (PDD) (Word doc, 42 KB)