EU Transition and Food Businesses

The transition period ended on 1 January 2021.

Food businesses that deal with the EU, either as a supplier or customer, will now need to complete additional checks and paperwork.

To assist businesses in finding out how they are affected and what steps they can take, the Government has published advice on their website. This advice focuses specifically on the food and drink sector. There is also information available on imports and exports after Brexit.  

In addition, the Food Standards Agency has food sector specific advice on their own website.

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) have created a series of podcasts to help industry understand the new requirements. You may also search for "Defra podcasts" on SoundCloud.

Topics include:

• exporting
• tariffs and agri-food sector
• trade agreements and the agri-food sector
• food labelling
• chemicals

For more information about Brexit, for both individuals and businesses, visit the Brexit homepage.

Exporting products of animal origin

Exports of animals and food products of animal origin are now subject to additional controls, including new Export Health Certificates. If you wish to export to the EU or beyond you will need to adhere to new requirements that include obtaining an export health certificate before sending your consignment. Further details on what is required and how to apply are available on the Gov.uk website. 

We are not at present offering Export Health Certificate services. A list of local providers is available on the Animal and Plant Health Agency website.