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1. Ensure the food item is allowed
Please also ensure that the ingredients of food products are also allowed to be brought into Singapore. For instance, food products that contain hemp seeds are strictly not allowed. For more information, check out these FAQs from the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB).
Please check the List of Food & Food Products Allowed to avoid having it disposed of or detained at the Singapore Customs.
2. Ensure the amount is within the maximum allowance
If you intend to bring back quantities exceeding the limit, you should apply for an import licence or permit as detailed in the Process for Larger Quantities of Food Detained.
3. Observe practices that ensure food safety
Unlike commercially imported food or food products, the food or food products you carry back from your travels are not subject to food safety checks. Please be aware of these risks and observe good practices that ensure that the food products are safe for your consumption.
Here are some tips:
Tip 1: Choose food items that do not need to be refrigerated
Food that requires refrigeration tend to be perishable. Perishables might go bad along the journey back to Singapore, making them unsafe for consumption.
As luggages and packages are typically stored at room temperature, it is conducive to bacterial growth. Some bacteria produce toxins that remain in the food product even after it is cooked, which can cause illness.
To avoid unnecessary food safety risks, choose non-perishable items instead, such as spices, biscuits, traditional snacks, canned delicacies, and other heat-processed food.
Tip 2: Buy from safe sources
It is advisable for you to purchase food products from reputable and licensed shops and food establishments overseas. You may wish to consider these questions when purchasing food products overseas:
- Is the vendor you are buying from licensed by the relevant authorities? Do they have their certifications or licences displayed?
- Do they observe practices that ensure food safety? Are their premises clean and hygienic?
- Do they have a good reputation?
- Is their food packed and labelled clearly with the manufacturer’s details?
Tip 3: Ensure food items are properly packed
Ensure food products that you bring back are packed securely. Good packaging prevents contaminants and bacterial growth. You may want to keep the food products in airtight containers and vacuum-sealed bags to ensure freshness and keep out any contaminants. You can also bubble wrap the food items to keep the packaging secure and intact.
4. Do not sell any of the food items to others
Travellers are allowed to bring in food from abroad strictly for their personal consumption. They are not allowed to sell any of the food products, whether to their friends or via online platforms.
Should you wish to bring in food products from overseas for sale, you must obtain a licence. You must also ensure that the food products are safe for consumption.
For details on how you can get a licence, check out What You Need to Know to Import Food for Commercial Sale and Guidelines for Group-Buy Organisers.
For more information
You can contact us through the SFA Online Feedback Form.
