Popular Nigerian Foods You Can’t Take Abroad

Right information at the right time can prevent potential embarrassment and loss of properties while going through custom inspection at the Airport. For first time people travelling outside the country, they are usually curious about the foreign foods and the potential homesick that awaits them as a result of the local food they can’t get abroad. For this reason, many think of going along with as many as possible of their favourite local foods and thereby unintentionally neglecting the food restriction when travelling abroad. Regulations may vary depending on the destination country, and it’s advisable to check the specific rules of the country you are traveling to. However, there are some general guidelines regarding Nigerian foods that are often restricted which are categorized below.

1. Fresh fruits and vegetables: When travelling abroad don’t bother going with any form of fresh food, they are highly restricted. Although there are some dry foods that are allowed which would be denied if they are fresh. They include dry vegetables (ugu, bitterleaves, uziza, ewedu, atama, scentleaves, waterleaves) and dried fish and seafoods (dried crayfish, smoked catfish, dried snail, dried mangala fish, dried bonga fish, smoked panla fish, etc)
2. Meat and animal products: Bringing meat and meat products, including dried or canned meats, are restricted to prevent the spread of diseases. This includes Kilishi (dried meats), Ponmo, Suya, Agama Lizard Peppered Stew, Monkey meat, Bushmeat, seasonings, sauces and even bouillons containing any meat.
3. Homemade or perishable foods: Homemade or perishable items may be subject to restrictions, as they can pose a risk of contamination. Hence, your Ewa Agoyin, Efo riro, Fufu, Okpa, Moi Moi, Gbegiri and that Abula (Food made from cassava/yam/banana flour) can’t go outside the country with you.
4. Dairy products: Some countries like United Kingdom have restrictions on bringing dairy products like milk, cheese, and butter due to health and safety reasons.
5. Alcohol and tobacco products: Limits on the quantity of alcoholic beverages and tobacco products that can be brought into a country are common.

It is recommended to check with the customs and agriculture departments of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date information on food import restrictions. It’s also a good idea to declare any food items you are carrying because if you get caught not declaring food items, you’ll lose them and could face fines up to $1,300 and criminal prosecution. Travel Safe!