What food cannot be taken to Kangaroo Island?

Kangaroo Island is a beautiful island off the coast of South Australia. But some forbidden items aren’t allowed on the island.

Kangaroo Island is a special place for many reasons. One reason being its remoteness has created a special environment. The island is free from pests and diseases found in mainland of Australia. Honey products and unwashed potatoes cannot be taken to Kangaroo Island. There may be a random biosecurity check at the Cape Jervis terminal. If you have honey products, dirty potatoes, or other restricted items you’ll have to throw them out. Penalties may apply if you don’t.

Why are honey products and dirty potatoes banned on Kangaroo Island?

Honey products aren’t allowed because they might spread diseases to the Ligurian bees. The Ligurian bees found on Kangaroo Island are believed to be the only pure-bred colony left in the world, so it’s important to keep them pure and disease-free.

Dirty or unwashed potatoes aren’t allowed because they may carry diseases. Washed or brushed potatoes in new packaging are okay to bring on the island to eat.

What else isn’t allowed on Kangaroo Island?

There are animals and plants which aren’t allowed on Kangaroo Island. Animals like rabbits and foxes aren’t allowed on the island. If rabbits and foxes occur on the island, they would cause an environmental disaster.

There are weeds and common garden plants that aren’t allowed on the island. These plants can include gazania, olive, blackberry, and arum lily. Bees and bee handling equipment aren’t allowed on Kangaroo Island. The bees and equipment could spread diseases to the Ligurian bees. These bees are the purest strain of Ligurian bees found in the world.

Introduced plant and animal species could carry diseases or could create an environmental disaster This is why there are some foods, animals, and plants aren’t allowed on Kangaroo Island. It’s best to keep the island free from diseases and pests found on Australia’s mainland.

What can I do if I spot an animal or plant that isn’t allowed on Kangaroo Island?

If you spot an animal that is a pest or plants that are declared weeds, you can report it. You can report it to the Department of Primary Industries and Regions South Australia (PIRSA) Kangaroo Island office. Besides rabbits and foxes, there are other pests. These pests can be feral pigs, ferrets, feral goats, feral deer, and European wasps.

So, when you make your trip to Kangaroo Island, leave your jars of honey and potatoes at home! Besides, you won’t need them when you’re exploring this stunning island.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.