Food Issues at Entry?

[mendeleyev]

Almost every few days I am hearing stories of personal food being confiscated upon entry to Russia. Sometimes by Russians returning from a holiday, or Westerners entering for a visit. If your bags are checked, it seems that cheese and chocolate are high on the list.

The reports seem to indicate that if Customs officials find food, even small amounts carried in a backpack or carry-on, they are prone to seize it and use the new expanded food ban as a reason.

If you encounter this, you might remind the official that personal food is exempted from the ban. That may not mean much to someone who holds the power to make you feel small, but still is a good practice to remind them that what they are doing is criminal. Do not be afraid to tell the official that President Putin's executive order specifically prohibits the confiscation of reasonable amounts for personal consumption.

Any issues so far?

[abashka]

My bags were checked at VKO two weeks ago when I returned from Canada. 2 kg of Grana Padano, and all the chocolate remained untouched;)

[mendeleyev]

Good to hear. I am in Amsterdam often and on the recent entry had no issues, but then again I elected not to chance bringing in cheese--much to the disappointment of MIL.