The export certificate can be a valid document that proves that the information provided on the consignment is accurate and the consignment is in compliance with EU regulations and health standards.
Since January 1st, 2021 EHCs are required on all export consignments coming from Scotland into the EU which contain Products of Animal Origin (POAO) or composite food products (products intended for consumption by humans only, which include the combination of processed products that are animal-based (POAO) or plant-based products used as a primary ingredient i.e not used to flavor or processed).
Companies that transport items of animal or plant origin that are intended for human consumption to GB in the UK to Northern Ireland, are required to present their Export Health Certificate on goods moves. Imports of products from animal origin will require a pre-notification prior to import through TRACES . There will be physical inspections upon arrival at arrival. There are some relaxations on the conditions to sell at supermarkets, and future updates to be issued regarding the future applications the easement.
Learn more about GOV.UK.
The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) is accountable for the issuance of EHCs.
Businesses must register and request EHCs for exports out of Scotland into Northern Ireland and the EU or Northern Ireland using the online service. Businesses must have an Government Gateway account and a Defra account prior to applying. If you don’t have these accounts then you’ll be instructed to create them when you sign up for this service your first time.
Businesses can locate the correct EHC and the necessary documents to be able for exporting a live animal or animal product by searching for the most current version of these certificates at the APHA website.
Businesses must find an accredited professional verify their EHC. Exporters who are new to the market will need to find a certifier and then secure their services prior to filing their EHC application. Find the most up-to-date list of certified professionals on GOV.UK.
There is a guideline on the internet:
Guidelines to Food Business Operators on EHC
Webinar tutorial recorded regarding EHCs to Food Business Operator
Webinar recorded on EHC issues by Seafood Scotland
Assistance in the process of getting EHCs in Scotland can be obtained by calling your local authority’s the department of environmental health. Be aware that even though these contacts are monitored during the holiday time, there could be delays in responding to inquiries.
Additional support regarding EHC is accessible to Scottish companies via Food Standards Scotland.
EHC Checklist
Use the form finder from Defra and determine if the item conforms to the requirements for export. If there is doubt the exporter should get in touch with their certified agent.
Apply to get EHC Online account EHC Online account
After you have registered and logged in, you are able to search for the EHC you require using the GOV.UK form searcher
It is the responsibility of the exporter to ensure that their application is accepted by the EHC Online. It is their responsibility to ensure whether the Certifying Officer (CO) they want to work with is also certified for EHC Online; you cannot apply for them if they’re not registered.
Fill out your EHC application using EHC Online
Check and read the notes for guidelines to ensure that the exports are in compliance with the specifications of the country to which they are going
Get your consignment checked and approved by your CO
Make sure that your certified EHC is transported with your export consignment