Food transport rules EU 2025. Travel. Are you planning a trip and want to take some Polish food with you? Before you pack, check what the rules are for bringing food from Poland to other countries in the European Union. In 2025, there are still limits on how much meat, dairy, and plant-based food you can carry for personal use. The rules can be different depending on where the food is coming from — EU or non-Schengen countries. In some cases, you may need to report what you’re carrying, and in others, it could be taken away or you might face a fine. That’s why it’s important for travelers — especially those who often visit Poland — to know what food can be taken safely and what might cause trouble at border checks.
How much food can you bring into another EU country?
Many people living abroad miss Polish foods. That’s why cold cuts, sweets, and other favorite products are often taken home after holidays in Poland. Luckily, when traveling within the EU, you can bring meat or dairy products as long as they are just for your own use. The same goes for plants, fruits, vegetables, or flowers — as long as they come from EU countries and are healthy (without pests or diseases). These rules also apply if you carry food in your luggage, order it online, or send it by mail.
Read also: Trump shuts borders again: Bans entry from 19 countries
You can also bring up to 10 kg of special foods like baby formula, baby food, or food for medical or pet needs, if:
- The food does not need to be kept cold,
- It is in sealed packaging with a brand name,
- The packaging is unopened (unless you’re already using it).
Most EU countries also have strict rules about bringing in rare animal or plant species or products made from them. Sometimes, you need special permission. For example, you can carry only up to 125 grams of sturgeon caviar without a permit. If you need more details, visit the official EU website at Europa.eu.