When embarking on a holiday, many travelers instinctively seek out unique souvenirs to bring home. However, if your journey leads you to Finland, it’s essential to navigate the country’s regulations regarding the importation of plants and foodstuffs—these items are not as freely exchanged as you might think.
A Cautionary Note on Souvenirs
While exploring an EU country may afford you the luxury of bringing back various goodies, those arriving from outside the EU should lean toward safer bet items like fridge magnets rather than food or plant-based souvenirs.
EU Countries: A Little More Freedom
Plants and Seeds
Traveling within the EU? You’re generally in the clear to bring along seeds, seedlings, potted plants, herbs, and cut flowers for personal use. However, keep in mind that certain plants like apple and pear trees, known hosts of fire blight, as well as seed potatoes, have specific regulations. Notably, you can only introduce these species into Finland if they carry a Plant Passport (PZ).
It’s crucial to remember that the Canary Islands pose unique challenges; you cannot import any fresh plant products or fruits from there without a phytosanitary certificate, as this territory is regarded as outside the EU for these purposes.
The Food Scene
When it comes to food, the rules shift slightly. From an EU country, you can bring back most food items with minimal restrictions—except for pork and wild boar meats, especially from regions affected by African swine fever, including Estonia and various Baltic nations. The Food Agency currently advises against importing any meat or animal-derived products, as they can carry pathogens that may pose a risk to local agriculture.
Navigating Restrictions from Outside the EU
Plants and Seeds
The restrictions tighten significantly for travelers coming from outside the EU. Plants or plant products require a phytosanitary certificate for importation—a document most travelers are unlikely to secure. Thus, for practical purposes, think twice before hoping to bring back any flora from these regions.
Food Imports
The same stringent rules apply to fresh fruits and vegetables: without a phytosanitary certificate, not even a single apple is permitted. However, there are some exceptions. Fruits like pineapples, bananas, and dates can be packed in your luggage without any additional paperwork.
Take note that while you might look to import meat or dairy from outside the EU, these are usually restricted. Nonetheless, certain countries, like Norway, Iceland, and Switzerland, afford more leniency akin to EU regulations.
Our Nuanced Food Rules
Interestingly, limited quantities of specific animal products can be imported from outside the EU—think honey, eggs, and even caviar—each with its own restrictions. For instance, you can only bring 125 grams of caviar without requiring a CITES export permit from its country of origin.
Value Limits on Imports
If you are returning to Finland from outside the EU, be mindful of the value limits on your imports. You can bring back goods worth up to €430 if arriving by air or sea, and this figure drops to €300 for other modes of transport. Notably, food items count toward this limit.
Unrestricted Imports for Personal Use
Here’s a silver lining: you can bring in various items from outside the EU without restriction, provided they are for personal use or that of close friends. This includes:
- Sweets, chocolate, and baked goods (as long as they’re meat-free)
- Packaged supplements containing highly processed animal products
- Fish-stuffed olives
- Certain types of miso and soy sauce
- Non-meat varieties of macaroni and noodles
- Soup broths, spices, and other food items free from fresh or processed meat and dairy
Conclusion
Stay informed and mindful of these guidelines when returning to Finland after your travels. Given the complexities of food and plant importation, keeping it simple will usually serve you best. Happy travels and souvenir shopping!
Sources: Finnish Food Agency and Customs