Skip to content

Import of animal products

Import from EEA countries

Icelandic food legislation is harmonized with EU food legislation due to the EEA Agreement. Animal products that are produced in EU/EEA countries in accordance with EU food legislation can move freely across the borders of member states.

However, food business operators should be aware of the special guarantees that apply for Salmonella in imported eggs and meat and the particular distribution rules that apply for Campylobacter in fresh poultry meat. Additionally, the distribution of unpasteurised milk and milk products is prohibited in Iceland.

Import from non-EEA countries (3rd countries)

EEA food legislation aims to ensure a safe food supply to all consumers by applying the same standards of food safety to all products regardless of origin. Food products of animal origin that are to be imported to the EEA from third countries shall be inspected at border control posts (BCPs).

Main conditions for import of animal products from third countries

  1. The product shall be produced in an EU-approved establishment and labelled with the EU approval number
  2. An original copy of the health certificate for the EU market, issued by the competent authority in the exporting country, or a captain's declaration when landing from a third-country vessel, must accompany the consignment
  3. The import shall be notified through Traces with at least a 24-hour notice before the physical arrival to EEA territory. The importer is responsible for the notification but may seek the help of their courier
  4. The consignment must be presented at an approved border control post 
  5. The importer is responsible for the import costs according to the MAST tariff
  6. OBS. Special import conditions for raw meat/animal products in Iceland (refer to guidance notes)

List of Icelandic border control posts (BCP)

Import of feed

Imported feed and feedstuffs for distribution in Iceland must be registered. The following documents are necessary for registration:

Feed for food producing animals

  1. Official registration number of the producer and seller
  2. List of ingredients stating percentages of each raw material including all additives (E-numbers and names)
  3. Declaration of the chemical composition

Feed for pets

  1. Official registration number of the producer and seller
  2. List of ingredients in declining mass order including all additives (E-numbers and names)
  3. Declaration of the chemical composition

Feed containing animal products and originating from countries outsite EEA must fulfill the above mentioned conditions for 3rd country imports.

Updated 17.01.2021
Can we improve the information on the page?