An Post has issued a warning to anyone sending food parcels to the US this Christmas, as new regulations have been introduced concerning packages bound for America
Ruairi Scott Byrne and Erica Carter
14:38, 09 Nov 2025
An Post has warned those hoping with family and friends in the United States not to send them certain foodstuffs this Christmas – stock photo
An Post has issued a warning to those sending food parcels to the US this Christmas due to new regulations.
These rules apply to packages destined for America and include a ban on some of the most commonly sent treats across the Atlantic – such as tea bags, crisps, and chocolate. Moreover, gifts valued over €85 will be subject to duty charges. These fees must be paid by the recipient before they can collect their parcel, reports the Irish Mirror.
Julie Gill, Marketing Director at An Post, clarified exactly what items are allowed during an appearance on RTÉ’s Drivetime. She said: “As regards chocolate, small amounts of chocolate is okay once it’s sealed so in its wrapper.
“But just small amounts of chocolate, you couldn’t be sending boxes and boxes of chocolate because then the customs in the US might think that was for onward commercial sales, so small amounts of chocolate is fine.
“Crisps are a little bit tricky, so it’s all around the flavour of the crisp, so salt and vinegar, ready salted absolutely fine, but smoky bacon, because it could be derived from meat or meat flavouring, is not allowed, so don’t send smoky bacon crisps.”
Cheese and onion flavours may also face restrictions, as Julie pointed out: “Cheese and onion is different because it could have milk or not, depending on the one that you’re buying.
“It’s the US customs rules, and their Department of Agriculture don’t want any products that are coming in derived from meat or meat substances that haven’t been made in the US,” she clarified.
Consequently, she advised against sending any homemade or unbranded, unsealed items as they could be seized by customs officials. People are urged to send only branded and sealed products if they’re posting food to America.
An Post has confirmed that standard post letters and large envelopes must be sent by December 10 to guarantee they arrive in the USA before Christmas. Standard Post Parcels should be sent by December 4.
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