Now that deer season is over in our area, (sorry to the anti-animal eaters out there, but we do eat all of the meat...not just for sport)we would really like to take some jerkey to relatives on our trip next week. I checked with Delta A/L and they said customs would not allow it into either Switzerland or Italy....not on carry-on or checked luggage. Has anyone ever "shipped" or mailed this type of food item before? It would be safely sealed in a cryovac package. I also bought packages at the store, but don't think that's allowed either. No fruit, meat, gels, etc., but does anyone know if I could either "mail" these things or get permission from inspectors or whomever? Our relatives just loved it when they were visiting here. Any ideas or experience with this? Thank you.
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
7560 posts
Delta is correct. If you do a search, it takes awhile, but if coming from a Non-EU state, meat products are prohibited. At first I found this puzzling, as what you will find is that there is no mandatory customs declaration (like entering the US) nor is there any formal inspection of your bags or person. Basically, when you arrive, you will stand in line, show your passport, and as you are heading towards the exit, you will see two passages, one saying "exit, no declared goods" (or something of the like; and another one that goes to customs. I have never been through the customs one. In fact, I think most places, baggage claim is after passport/customs control. I know that some have taken jerky with them as snacks with no issues (apparently a violation) not sure if a larger quantity would attract attention.
Posted by
OP
Salinas, California, USA
6 posts
Hi Paul ~ Thank you so very much for your reply. I have tried several attempts on the web, post office, airlines, etc. Apparently, restrictions have gotten very rigid on entering any country out of the US with most food products. Delta told me I could try to put some in as a snack, but would run the risk of being detained, maybe fined! One lady that flew 1st class saved an apple the stewardess gave her in-flight. As she came off the plane, customs saw this and detained her for over an hour, then pursued searching her check-in, carry-on and purse in spite of the airline stewardess attesting she had just been given this before landing. US Post office also said I could not "mail" meat content to Europe either. So, thank you anyway...I do appreciate your response.