Importing Chilled & Frozen Foods: Navigating Biosecurity and Safety Rules

Frozen and chilled foods might seem like a simple category to import, but in Australia, they come with a host of rules and regulations. Without the right preparation, customs clearance can quickly become a compliance headache!

Whether you’re a business importing frozen meals, seafood, or dairy products by sea, or an individual bringing in gourmet treats or specialty ingredients from overseas, understanding how these products are regulated is essential. At Australian Customs Clearance, we help simplify the process so you can navigate it with confidence.

What Counts as Frozen & Chilled Food?

When people think of “frozen foods,” they usually picture packaged meals or ice cream. But this category covers a wide range from seafood, meat, and poultry, to dairy products, desserts, and even specialty frozen vegetables.

Biosecurity First: Protecting Australia’s Borders

Australia has some of the strictest biosecurity measures in the world to protect its agriculture and food industries. Chilled and frozen foods can carry pests, bacteria, or contaminants that pose serious risks to local ecosystems and public health.

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) uses the Biosecurity Import Conditions (BICON) system to determine how chilled and frozen foods can enter the country. Many items must meet treatment standards before arrival such as deep freezing, pasteurization, or vacuum sealing to ensure they are safe.

Temperature control is also critical. Importers must ensure products remain within required temperature ranges throughout transport to prevent spoilage and contamination.

Personal vs Commercial Imports

Both commercial and personal chilled or frozen food imports are subject to compliance. Businesses importing for commercial purposes need robust due diligence systems to ensure products meet labeling, biosecurity, and safety standards.

Personal importers should consider:

• All frozen and chilled items are regulated, regardless of how they arrive (luggage, mail, or freight).
• Items must be pest- and contaminant-free. Certain animal products, dairy, and seafood may be prohibited.
• Border inspection is likely, so it’s not worth risking undeclared or non-compliant items.
• A declaration is required:

• • In luggage: declare all food on your incoming passenger card.
  • By mail/courier: ensure accurate labeling and description.
  • By freight: whether using sea or air freight, provide a detailed packing list specifying each product.

We’re Here to Help

At Australian Customs Clearance, we guide businesses and individuals through the entire chilled and frozen food import process. Our team combines extensive experience with deep knowledge of Australia’s biosecurity and food safety rules, helping your shipments arrive on time and fully compliant with all regulations.

Need help importing chilled or frozen food products into Australia? Contact an experienced customs broker today on 1300 287 257.