Import of foods from the EU
For the import of foods from the EU, rules apply on self-monitoring, labelling and permit and certification requirements. Find out about the applicable responsibilities, import conditions and legal framework.
Requirements and responsibilities
As part of their self-monitoring and own controls, food importers ensure that goods comply with the legal requirements.
When sold to consumers, foods must display all required labelling information.
The cantons, under the guidance of the cantonal chemists, are responsible for conducting official controls in Switzerland. In addition, the provisions of the product-specific ordinances must be complied with.
More information:
Association of Swiss laboratories
Swiss Association of Cantonal Chemists
Federal Act on Foodstuffs and Consumer Products (FoodA)
Ordinance on Foodstuffs and Consumer Products (FoodO)
Permit requirement
The foods listed in the Ordinance on Foodstuffs and Consumer Products can be imported without an FSVO permit provided that all requirements are met.
Foods that are not listed in this Ordinance require a permit from the FSVO.
Certification requirement
In principle, foods can be imported into Switzerland without a certificate.
For foods of animal origin from third countries, specific regulations apply to prevent the introduction of animal diseases.
For the import of wild mushrooms from Eastern Europe, certification is required.
More information:
Import of foods from third countries
Special import conditions
As well as the food law import requirements, agricultural regulations or aspects of security of supply may be relevant, depending on the product.
Information on this can be obtained from the Federal Office for Agriculture (FOAG) or from réservesuisse.
More information:
Federal Office for Agriculture FOAG
For the Import of foods from protected species (e.g. caviar), the CITES regulations apply.
More information:
Procedure and guidelines on species conservation in import
Under the Ordinance on the Inspection of the Lawful Origin of Imported Marine Fishery Products, certain consignments of marine fishery products are subject to inspection and must be registered with the FSVO for document inspection.
More information:
Private travel/consignments to private individuals by letter or parcel post
For foods brought into the country by travellers and for letters and parcels sent to private individuals, special conditions apply.
More information: