Import from countries outside the EU – composite products

There are special EU import conditions for composite products. These conditions vary based on the type of product you intend to import. As an importer, you need to make sure that your composite product fulfils all the requirements before bringing it into the EU.

You will also need to find out whether it needs to undergo border control or not. Please note that new rules apply from 21st April 2021.

Composite products are foodstuffs containing both products of plant origin and processed products of animal origin.

In accordance with Articles 1(2) and 6(4) of Regulation (EC) No. 853/2004, the composite products must be manufactured with processed products of animal origin produced in EU-approved establishments located either in EU Member States or in third countries authorised for entry into the EU of those particular processed products of animal origin.

Rules for the entry of composite products into the EU are laid out in Articles 20 to 22 of Regulation (EU) 2022/2292. The rules are proportionate to the risk presented by composite products and are no longer based on the amount of processed products of animal origin in the final product.

Reviewed 2024-02-08