No pork in parcels: what to know before sending, ordering or receiving food

Sending or receiving food from abroad? Read this first.

A care package from home. A favourite snack you grew up with. Something a friend or family member sends because they know you love it. Food is a way people stay connected – and it often comes from the best intentions. But some of those items can carry risks you might not expect.

A hidden risk in parcels and online orders

Some foods can carry diseases like African swine fever (ASF), which can spread through pork and pork products. It doesn't affect people, but even small amounts of contaminated food can introduce the disease into Canada and have serious consequences for pigs, farmers and the economy.

This risk can come from:

• care packages or gifts from family and friends
• food shared through personal networks
• items ordered online from international sellers
• specialty foods purchased through community or social media groups

Even if a product looks safe, is packaged or shelf-stable, it may not meet Canadian import requirements.

Before sending or ordering food

Food sent by mail or ordered online is still subject to Canada's import rules and may be stopped at the border if it doesn't meet requirements.

If something is easy to buy or ship, it can seem like it must be allowed – but some items are restricted to prevent the spread of animal diseases, among other things, and protect Canada's food system, farms and economy.

If friends or family want to send you food, let them know pork products are not permitted and can pose a risk.

3 tips to help keep Canada free of ASF

• Buy pork products from retailers in Canada
• Don't send, order or receive pork products via online retailers
• When in doubt, don't bring it into Canada

These simple things help protect Canada's pigs, farmers and economy.