Bringing Polish potatoes into England, Think Again!

[classic33]

If you want chips with your suspiciously-handled fish, make sure they're legal.

The Polish Potatoes Order 2004 makes it illegal for someone to "import into England potatoes which he knows to be or has reasonable cause to suspect to be Polish potatoes".

An exception is made if you write to an inspector at least two days before you plan to bring your tubers over, giving details of:

• The proposed time, date and means of introduction
• The proposed point of entry into England
• The intended use of the potatoes
• The proposed destination of the potatoes
• The variety of the potatoes
• The quantity of potatoes
• The producer's identification number

The law was introduced in response to ring rot outbreaks in Poland.

In 2012, the Food and Environment Research Agency reinforced the guideline, by demanding a ring rot test certificate accompany the spuds.

This was triggered by a poor crop in the UK leading to importers searching for European replacements.

 

[Morning Glory]

Can't say that I've noticed any Polish potatoes in the supermarket!

 

[Duck59]

It's very specific in saying England - does that mean we can bring them into Scotland?

 

[classic33]

It's very specific in saying England - does that mean we can bring them into Scotland?

You could try it & let us know.

 

[epicuric]

Does the same thing count for Latvian potatoes as well?

 

[classic33]

Does the same thing count for Latvian potatoes as well?

No, just Polish. To avoid bringing the Ring Rot into the UK.