Controls on Non-Commercial Imports of Meat into the Isle of Man

The Agricultural Marketing Act 1934 - The Dead Meat (Import Regulation) Order 1968

The Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry currently controls the importation of Meat into the Isle of Man. These controls are based on Animal Health grounds and Trade agreements with the European Union.

Summaries of Controls are as follows:

1. Imports from outside the European Union (so called 'Third Countries') - PROHIBITED
2. Imports from inside the European Union

1. the import of Lamb and Mutton (fresh or frozen) - PROHIBITED
2. the import of Beef (fresh or frozen) - PROHIBITED
3. the importation of Pork and Pork products, fresh and frozen (e.g. ham, gammon, bacon, pork sausages, spare ribs etc) will normally be permitted from EU countries, provided they are within commercially sealed packages bearing the EU approved Health Mark - the 'oval stamp'.
4. the importation of Poultry and Poultry products, fresh and frozen, will normally be permitted from EU countries, provided they are within commercially sealed packages bearing the EU 'oval stamp'.
5. the import of Comminuted meats (minced meats) and other related meat products (sausages, meat pies) will normally be permitted from EU countries, provided they are within commercially sealed packages bearing the EU 'oval stamp'.

Exemptions may be granted for 2 (a) and 2 (b) on the grounds of religious or dietary requirements. However, an import licence MUST be obtained from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry, prior to any importation. For further information contact the Animal Health Division on (01624) 685844.

NB: Entries into the Island may be subject to spot checks by Inspectors from the Department, any illegal consignment will be seized and person(s) importing such may be liable to prosecution.

In the case of any Notifiable Disease outbreaks within the EU, the above guidelines may be reviewed or revoked immediately.

This is not a definitive statement of the law, and is for guidance purposes only. For further information please contact the Animal Health Division on (01624) 685844.