Navigating customs regulations when entering Canada can be tricky, especially when it comes to food. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) requires you to declare all goods you have with you, including food, that were obtained outside of Canada. Knowing What Food Can Be Brought Into Canada legally can save you time and potential hassles at the border.
Making Your Declaration to CBSA
When arriving in Canada, whether you’re a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or a visitor, you need to declare all goods, including food items. The declaration process depends on your mode of transportation.
Entering Canada by Commercial Airline
At major Canadian international airports, you can use primary inspection kiosks or eGates for on-screen declarations:
- Scan your travel document.
- Have your photo taken.
- Answer questions on the touch screen.
To expedite the process, consider using the Advance CBSA Declaration feature in the ArriveCAN app up to 72 hours before your arrival. This can significantly reduce your time at the kiosk.
An airport kiosk used for customs declaration.
Entering Canada in a Private Vehicle
Usually, you can make an oral declaration to a border services officer when entering Canada in a car, boat, aircraft, or bus.
Declaring Food Items
You must declare all food items, including:
- Purchased goods, including food.
- Gifts, prizes, or awards containing food.
- Goods bought at duty-free shops (Canadian or foreign) that are still in your possession, including food.
It’s always best to declare any questionable items. Border services officers can help you determine if any duties and taxes apply.
Personal Exemptions and Food
Depending on the length of your absence from Canada, you may qualify for personal exemptions that allow you to bring goods of a certain value into Canada without paying regular duty and taxes. These exemptions generally apply to goods for personal or household use.
Restricted and Prohibited Food Items
Certain food items are restricted or prohibited from entering Canada due to potential risks to Canada’s agriculture, environment, and economy. These restrictions are in place to prevent the introduction of foreign pests and diseases.
Prohibited goods include:
- Cannabis (illegal to bring across the border without proper authorization)
- Food, plants, animals, and related products that pose a risk to Canada (e.g., certain meats, fruits, and vegetables from specific countries affected by diseases).
A CBSA officer inspecting food products.
Always check the specific regulations before traveling, as they can change based on current risks.
Specific Food Restrictions
While a comprehensive list is subject to change, here are some general guidelines regarding common food items:
- Meat and Poultry: Restrictions vary depending on the country of origin due to diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease and Avian Influenza. Cooked meat is often allowed from the US, but raw meat restrictions are stricter.
- Dairy Products: Restrictions also vary by country of origin due to concerns about diseases like Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE).
- Fruits and Vegetables: Certain fruits and vegetables may be restricted due to pests and diseases. For example, some fresh produce from specific regions may be prohibited. Always check the current list of restricted items.
- Plant Products: Restrictions apply for plant products, especially those for propagation, based on the origin country and potential pest/disease risks.
To get the most up-to-date information, consult the Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) website.
False Declarations and Seizure of Food
Failure to declare food items or making a false declaration can result in the seizure of the goods and potential fines. Fines can range from 25% to 80% of the value of the seized goods. Undeclared tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, and firearms will not be returned.
Travelling with Money
Remember, if you’re carrying $10,000 or more in cash or monetary instruments, you must declare it upon entering or leaving Canada.
Conclusion
Understanding what food can be brought into Canada is crucial for a smooth border crossing. Always declare all food items, and familiarize yourself with current restrictions and regulations. When in doubt, declare it! By being informed and honest, you can avoid potential penalties and ensure compliance with Canadian customs laws.
