Understanding Air Travel Food Regulations: The Basics
When planning an international journey, knowing what food items you can carry aboard is crucial for a stress-free experience. While most airlines permit a reasonable quantity of food for personal consumption, strict rules apply, primarily driven by customs and agricultural import regulations of destination countries, as well as aviation security protocols. These regulations aim to prevent the introduction of pests, diseases, and prohibited substances, ensuring both passenger safety and biosecurity.
The core principle is that most non-perishable, commercially packaged, and sealed food items intended for consumption during or immediately after your flight are generally allowed. However, the devil is in the details, especially concerning fresh produce, meats, dairy, and homemade goods. Understanding these nuances before you pack can save you from unpleasant surprises at security checkpoints or border control, where confiscated items are a common sight for unprepared travelers.
Carry-on versus checked baggage also matters, though the primary restrictions often stem from the destination country’s import laws rather than the airline's internal policies on what you can eat during the flight. Liquid food items, for instance, must adhere to the same volume restrictions as other liquids in carry-on baggage. Being informed about these layered rules is your first step towards packing smart and enjoying your trip without culinary disruptions.
- Sealed, non-perishable foods are generally permitted.
- Destination country import laws are key restrictions.
- Liquid food follows carry-on liquid rules.
- Fresh produce, meats, and dairy often face strict limits.
- Check specific airline and destination country rules.
The landscape of air travel rules can seem daunting, but a systematic approach to understanding what is permitted makes all the difference. Most international airports and airlines provide guidelines, but these can sometimes be generalized. The most critical factor influencing what you can bring is not necessarily the airline itself, but the biosecurity laws of the country you are flying into. These laws are designed to protect local agriculture and ecosystems from invasive species and diseases. Therefore, before you even consider your favorite snacks, think about where you are going. Some countries are notoriously strict, while others are more lenient.
Navigating Airline Policies vs. Customs Regulations
It is vital to differentiate between what an airline permits you to consume onboard and what you are allowed to bring into a foreign country. Airlines are primarily concerned with safety, hygiene, and security during the flight. They typically allow most packaged snacks, candies, and even some sandwiches. However, they might have rules against strong-smelling foods or items that could create a mess. These airline-specific rules are usually less stringent than customs regulations. Customs and border protection agencies, on the other hand, enforce import laws that dictate what food products can enter the country. These regulations are far more comprehensive and often prohibit or severely restrict items like fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, and even baked goods with certain ingredients. Always prioritize understanding the import laws of your destination country; they will be the ultimate deciding factor.
The destination country's import laws are the most critical factor governing what food items you can bring.
The Role of Security Screening
Airport security, like the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States or similar bodies elsewhere, focuses on items that could pose a security threat. For food, this typically means ensuring items are not disguised as prohibited objects and that any liquids comply with carry-on restrictions. Solid food items are generally less of a concern for security screening compared to liquids, gels, or aerosols. However, excessively large quantities or items that might resemble contraband could attract closer inspection. Solid food items are typically allowed through security checkpoints in both carry-on and checked bags without significant issue, provided they do not violate other regulations.
Permitted Food Items: What You Can Likely Carry
When packing, focus on food items that are commercially produced, sealed, and non-perishable. These are the most straightforward to bring through international travel checkpoints. Think of items that have a long shelf life and are designed for easy transport and consumption. Such items are less likely to pose a biosecurity risk or violate import laws, making them generally safe bets for your luggage.
Commonly allowed items include a wide variety of snacks like potato chips, pretzels, crackers, cookies, and energy bars. Candies, chocolates, and chewing gum are also usually permissible. Nuts and seeds, especially if roasted and packaged, are typically fine. Dried fruits are another excellent option, as their low moisture content reduces spoilage and biosecurity concerns. Packaged cereals and granola are also generally accepted, provided they are in their original, unopened packaging.
For those who prefer something more substantial, many commercially packaged, shelf-stable meals or meal replacements are also acceptable. These often come in vacuum-sealed pouches or boxes. It's crucial that these items remain sealed and unopened until you are ready to consume them. If a food item is meant to be refrigerated or requires specific preparation beyond heating, it is more likely to face restrictions.
Solid Snacks and Confectioneries
Solid snacks are the backbone of travel food. Items like sealed bags of chips, crackers, biscuits, and cookies are usually not an issue. Ensure they are in their original packaging to easily demonstrate they are standard consumer goods. Confectioneries such as chocolate bars, hard candies, and gummies are also safe to carry. They are lightweight, don't spoil easily, and are universally recognized as safe food products. Consider individually wrapped portions for easier access and hygiene during your journey.
Commercially packaged, sealed, and non-perishable solid snacks are the safest food items to bring.
Baked Goods and Dry Goods
Commercially baked goods like bread, muffins, or cakes are often permitted, especially if they do not contain dairy or meat products. However, homemade baked goods can be a gray area and may be subject to stricter scrutiny, particularly if they contain ingredients that are restricted in the destination country. Dry goods such as pasta, rice, or instant noodle packets (without the broth powder if it contains restricted ingredients) are usually allowed in checked baggage. If you are carrying items like flour or sugar in significant quantities, they might be subject to specific regulations, but for personal consumption amounts, they are often fine.
Dried Fruits and Nuts
Dried fruits and nuts are excellent travel companions. They are nutrient-dense, non-perishable, and generally pose minimal biosecurity risks. Items like raisins, apricots, mango slices, almonds, walnuts, and cashews, when bought in sealed consumer packaging, are widely accepted. Be cautious with heavily processed or seasoned nuts, as some seasonings might contain restricted ingredients. However, for plain or lightly salted varieties, you are unlikely to encounter problems. These are ideal for sustained energy throughout a long flight.
Foods Requiring Careful Consideration or Likely Restriction
While many items are permissible, certain food categories consistently present challenges when traveling internationally. These are often restricted due to their potential to carry diseases, pests, or because they are perishable and can spoil, leading to hygiene issues. Understanding these categories is key to avoiding disappointment at customs.
Fresh fruits and vegetables are frequently among the most restricted items. Many countries have strict phytosanitary laws to prevent the import of plant pests and diseases. Even common items like apples, oranges, or bananas can be prohibited. Similarly, fresh meat, poultry, and fish products are almost always restricted or outright banned due to the risk of transmitting animal diseases. This includes cured meats, sausages, and jerky unless they are commercially packaged, fully cooked, shelf-stable, and clearly declared.
Dairy products, including cheese, milk, and yogurt, can also be problematic. While some hard, aged cheeses might be allowed, soft cheeses, milk, and yogurt are often prohibited due to spoilage concerns and potential pathogen risks. Homemade foods, even if seemingly innocuous, are also a red flag. Without clear ingredient lists and proof of commercial production, they are often treated with suspicion and may be confiscated. Always assume that anything not in its original, sealed commercial packaging requires extra caution.
Fresh Produce: Fruits and Vegetables
The prohibition of fresh fruits and vegetables is one of the most common and strictly enforced customs regulations worldwide. These items can harbor insects, larvae, fungi, and plant diseases that could devastate local agriculture. Even seemingly harmless items like an apple or a bunch of grapes can be confiscated. Some countries may allow certain fruits or vegetables if they are processed (e.g., canned or dried) or if they originate from specific low-risk regions, but this is rare and requires thorough research. It is generally advisable to consume all fresh produce before you land or leave it at home.
Fresh fruits and vegetables are frequently prohibited due to biosecurity risks.
Meats, Poultry, and Fish
Bringing meat, poultry, or fish across international borders is highly regulated. These products are considered high-risk for carrying animal diseases, such as avian flu or foot-and-mouth disease. Most countries prohibit the import of fresh, frozen, or dried meat and meat products unless they are accompanied by stringent health certificates and import permits, which are impractical for personal travel. Commercially packaged, shelf-stable, fully cooked, and sealed products might be an exception in some countries, but declaring them is mandatory. Canned meats are often permitted if they are shelf-stable and properly sealed.
Dairy Products, Eggs, and Homemade Foods
Dairy products like milk, cheese, yogurt, and butter can be subject to restrictions. While some hard, aged cheeses might be allowed if declared and properly packaged, softer cheeses, milk, and yogurt are often prohibited due to their perishable nature and potential to carry bacteria. Eggs are also usually restricted. Homemade food items, such as cookies, cakes, sandwiches, or casseroles, are a significant concern for customs officials. They lack the commercial traceability and assurance of ingredients and processing that packaged goods provide, making them prone to confiscation. If you are unsure, it is best to avoid bringing homemade meals or snacks.
Liquid Foods and Carry-On Restrictions
When carrying liquid food items in your carry-on baggage, the standard TSA (or equivalent international security) liquid rule applies. This rule is designed to prevent the carriage of dangerous liquids, including certain types of explosives or flammable substances. Travelers must pack all liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes in containers no larger than 100 milliliters (3.4 ounces).
These smaller containers must then be placed inside a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of one liter. Only one such bag is permitted per passenger. This applies to items like yogurt, jam, honey, peanut butter, soup, sauces, and even bottled water or juice you purchase before security. Items purchased at the airport beyond the security checkpoint are usually exempt from these restrictions.
For checked baggage, liquid food restrictions are generally less stringent regarding container size, but customs and import regulations of the destination country still apply. However, it is always wise to pack liquids securely to prevent leaks and potential damage to other items. Using leak-proof containers and placing them within plastic bags is a good practice, regardless of whether they are in carry-on or checked luggage.
The 3-1-1 Liquid Rule for Carry-On
The 3-1-1 rule is fundamental for carry-on liquid items, including food. This means: 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less per container. 1 quart (1 liter) total capacity for the plastic bag. 1 bag per passenger. This rule affects items such as yogurt cups, fruit purees, peanut butter, hummus, honey, maple syrup, and creamy dips. If your liquid food item exceeds the 100 ml limit, it must be placed in your checked luggage or left behind.
Adhere to the 3-1-1 liquid rule for all food items in carry-on baggage.
Items Affected by the Liquid Rule
Many common food items can be considered liquids or semi-liquids by security standards. This includes things like: yogurt, pudding, creamy cheeses, jams, jellies, preserves, honey, syrups, sauces, dressings, dips, and fruit juices or smoothies. Even items like canned tuna or chicken, if packed in liquid, could be subject to these rules depending on the specific interpretation by security personnel. It is always better to err on the side of caution and place any item that is not entirely solid in your checked baggage if it exceeds the 100 ml limit, or if you are unsure.
Checked Baggage for Liquids
While the 3-1-1 rule applies only to carry-on bags, checked baggage offers more flexibility for liquid food items. You can pack larger containers of peanut butter, jam, sauces, or even bottles of wine or spirits (within airline and country limits for alcohol) in your checked luggage. However, ensuring these items are securely sealed and protected from breakage is paramount to avoid making a mess in your suitcase. Double-bagging containers and padding them with clothing is a recommended practice.
Specific Country Restrictions and Declarations
The most critical aspect of bringing food on an international flight is complying with the destination country's import regulations. These vary significantly and can be surprisingly strict. Ignoring these rules is a common cause for confiscation, fines, or even more serious penalties. Therefore, thorough research into the specific laws of the country you are visiting is not merely recommended; it is essential.
Many countries have dedicated government websites (often associated with customs, agriculture, or biosecurity departments) that detail prohibited and restricted food items. For example, countries with strong agricultural sectors, like Australia, New Zealand, or the United States, tend to have very rigorous import laws. These often involve restrictions on most fresh produce, meats, and dairy products to protect their native flora and fauna and agricultural industries.
Always declare any food items you are carrying when you arrive at customs, even if you believe they are permitted. Failure to declare can lead to penalties. Customs officers are trained to identify and inspect food products, and honesty is the best policy. If an item is not allowed, it will be confiscated, but you are unlikely to face further repercussions if it was declared. If you don't declare it and it's found, the consequences can be more severe.
Researching Destination-Specific Rules
Before your trip, identify the official government website for customs, border protection, or agriculture in your destination country. Look for sections related to "travelers' information," "bringing food into the country," or "prohibited items." Be specific in your search; for instance, "importing food into Japan" or "Australia customs food rules." Pay close attention to categories like fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, and baked goods. Some countries have specific lists of allowed items, while others list only prohibited ones. If in doubt, assume it is restricted.
Always research the specific food import regulations of your destination country.
The Importance of Declaring Food Items
When you arrive in a foreign country, you will typically be given a customs declaration form. This form almost always includes a question about whether you are bringing in any food, plant, or animal products. It is imperative to answer this question truthfully and check the relevant box. Even if you believe the food item is allowed, declaring it allows customs officials to inspect it. If it is permissible, you can proceed. If it is not, it will be confiscated, but you will have complied with the law. Not declaring an item that is later found can result in fines, confiscation, and a criminal record, depending on the country and the item.
What Happens if Food is Not Allowed?
If you declare food items that are not permitted into the country, the customs officer will typically confiscate them. They will usually have a designated disposal bin for such items. This is the most common outcome for prohibited food. In cases where undeclared food is discovered, or if the quantity is excessive for personal use, penalties can range from confiscation and a warning to significant fines, or even being denied entry into the country, especially if it is a repeat offense or a particularly high-risk item. It is always better to declare and have an item confiscated than to risk penalties for non-declaration.
Tips for Packing Food Safely and Smartly
Packing food for international travel requires a blend of adhering to regulations and ensuring your food remains fresh and safe to eat. Strategic packing can prevent spoilage, leaks, and confiscation, making your journey more enjoyable. The key is to be organized, informed, and practical.
Start by confirming what you plan to bring aligns with both airline and destination country rules. Once confirmed, pack items logically. Non-perishable, sealed items can go into your carry-on or checked luggage. Perishable items, if allowed, need careful consideration. For carry-on, liquids must meet the 3-1-1 rule. For checked bags, ensure liquids are leak-proof.
Consider the duration of your trip and how long the food needs to last. If you are traveling for an extended period, focus on non-perishable options or plan to purchase food upon arrival. Insulated lunch bags and ice packs (frozen solid before boarding, not melted) can help keep certain items cool for a limited time in carry-on luggage, but check airline policies on ice packs.
Utilizing Sealed Containers and Packaging
Always keep food in its original, commercially sealed packaging whenever possible. This packaging serves as proof that the food is a standard consumer product and has not been tampered with. If repacking is necessary for space or protection, use sturdy, airtight, and leak-proof containers. For checked baggage, consider double-bagging items, especially liquids, within sturdy plastic bags to contain any potential spills. Vacuum-sealed bags can also be effective for preserving dry goods and extending the freshness of some items.
Original, commercially sealed packaging is the best indicator of compliance for food items.
Keeping Food Fresh and Safe
For items that are not strictly non-perishable but might be allowed (e.g., certain pre-packaged sandwiches or salads that are permitted by customs), keeping them cool is important. If you are allowed to bring an ice pack in your carry-on, ensure it is frozen solid before you go through security. If it is partially melted, it may be treated as a liquid. Alternatively, you can buy frozen items like a water bottle at the airport after security to use as a temporary cooler. For longer journeys, focus on foods that are shelf-stable at room temperature.
Organization for Security and Customs
Organize your food items so they are easily accessible. In your carry-on, place your liquids bag (if carrying liquid food items) at the top for quick removal during security screening. Keep solid snacks readily available for consumption during the flight. For customs, have any declared food items clearly separated and ready for inspection. Knowing exactly what you are carrying and where it is located will expedite the process and demonstrate preparedness to officials. A clear understanding of what's packed and its compliance status avoids last-minute confusion.
Special Considerations for Different Food Types
Beyond the general categories, certain specialty food items require specific attention due to their unique properties or ingredients. These can range from dietary supplements and baby food to alcohol and culturally specific delicacies. Understanding the rules for these niche items can prevent unexpected issues.
For instance, baby food, including formula and purees, is often exempt from the standard liquid rules in carry-on baggage, allowing parents to carry sufficient quantities for the journey. However, it's wise to check with the specific airline and the destination country's customs, as policies can vary. Solid baby food, like cereal or crackers, generally follows the same rules as other solid snacks.
Alcoholic beverages are permitted but come with strict airline and customs regulations. Generally, you can carry alcohol in checked baggage, with limits on the percentage of alcohol and the volume. Some airlines may allow a small amount of alcohol in carry-on, provided it was purchased in the duty-free area after security and is properly sealed. It is crucial to check both the airline's policy and the destination country's import limits.
Baby Food and Formula
Traveling with infants requires special consideration for food. Most aviation security authorities understand the necessity of carrying baby food, formula, breast milk, and pureed or soft baby foods. These are typically allowed in reasonable quantities for the duration of the flight, even if they exceed the 100ml liquid limit for carry-on. However, you may be asked to present them separately at security for additional screening. It is advisable to carry these items in their original packaging or clearly labeled containers.
Baby food and formula are often exempt from standard liquid restrictions for carry-on.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverages can be carried in checked baggage, provided they are sealed and within the quantity limits set by the airline and destination country. For example, many airlines limit the total volume of alcohol in checked bags. If you purchase alcohol at duty-free after passing through security, it is usually permitted in your carry-on, but it must remain in the sealed, tamper-evident bag provided by the retailer until you exit the airport at your destination. The alcohol content percentage is also a key factor; beverages over a certain percentage are often prohibited entirely.
Dietary Supplements and Medications
Dietary supplements, such as protein powders or vitamins, are generally treated as solid foods and are permissible in both carry-on and checked baggage, provided they are in their original packaging. If they are in powder form, they might be subject to additional screening at security. Liquid supplements follow the same 3-1-1 rule as other liquids in carry-on. Prescription and over-the-counter medications, whether solid or liquid, should ideally be kept in their original packaging with prescription labels if applicable. They are usually allowed through security in quantities needed for the trip, and often are exempt from the liquid rule when medically necessary.
Prohibited Items and Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Even with careful planning, travelers can fall into common pitfalls that lead to food confiscation. Understanding what is unequivocally prohibited and being aware of potential gray areas can prevent these issues. The primary goal of prohibitions is to maintain safety, biosecurity, and public health.
Certain items are universally banned or highly restricted due to their potential to carry disease or invasive pests. This includes items like live animals (unless specifically declared and permitted, like service animals), soil, hay, and certain plant materials. For food, items like bulk quantities of spices, seeds for planting, or large amounts of raw honey might face restrictions not always obvious.
One of the most frequent mistakes is underestimating the strictness of biosecurity laws in certain countries. Travelers might assume that a snack they easily brought on a previous trip to a different country will be fine, only to have it confiscated. Another pitfall is not declaring items. When in doubt, always declare. It is far better to have an item confiscated than to face penalties for non-declaration.
Universally Prohibited or Highly Restricted Items
While specific rules vary, some food-related items are almost always prohibited or heavily restricted. This includes live plant materials, uncooked grains, and certain types of seeds intended for planting. Some countries also restrict bulk quantities of spices or herbs if they are not commercially packaged and sealed. Items that are spoiled or appear to be intentionally concealed can also be flagged. Always consult official sources for definitive lists of prohibited items for your destination.
Avoid bringing items that are explicitly listed as prohibited by your destination country's customs or agriculture authorities.
Common Mistakes Travelers Make
One of the most common mistakes is assuming that because a food item is allowed by the airline for consumption onboard, it is also allowed into the destination country. These are two separate sets of rules. Another frequent error is bringing homemade food without a clear understanding of its ingredients and if those ingredients are permitted. Finally, travelers often fail to declare food items, leading to potential fines and confiscation. Always declare and be honest.
Navigating Homemade and Unpackaged Foods
Homemade foods, including sandwiches, baked goods, or meals, are often a source of confiscation because their ingredients, origin, and preparation methods are unknown to customs officials. Without commercial labeling and ingredient lists, it's impossible for them to verify compliance with biosecurity laws. If you must bring homemade food, ensure it contains only ingredients that are universally permitted (e.g., plain bread, sugar, salt) and avoid anything perishable or derived from restricted categories like meat or dairy. Even then, declaration is crucial, and confiscation is still a possibility.
Using Food for Comfort and Convenience During Travel
Beyond the regulations, bringing your own food can significantly enhance comfort and convenience during international flights, especially on long-haul journeys. Having familiar snacks and meals can combat travel fatigue, manage dietary needs, and save money compared to expensive airport or onboard options.
For passengers with specific dietary requirements, such as allergies, gluten intolerance, or vegan preferences, carrying personal food is often a necessity. While airlines can sometimes cater to special requests, having your own safe, compliant food ensures you won't go hungry or face an allergic reaction. Pre-packaged, shelf-stable meals and snacks are ideal for this purpose.
Moreover, packing a few favorite snacks can make a long flight much more bearable. Having something to nibble on during layovers or while waiting for meal services can be a lifesaver. Just remember to balance convenience with compliance – your personal comfort should not come at the expense of breaking travel regulations.
Dietary Needs and Allergies
If you have strict dietary needs or severe allergies, carrying your own food is often the safest approach. While airlines are increasingly accommodating, cross-contamination risks or limited options can still be an issue. Pack foods that you know are safe and compliant with your dietary restrictions, ensuring they also meet international travel regulations. Clearly label any items containing common allergens if carrying them in shared spaces, though for personal travel, this is less critical than ensuring the food itself is safe for you.
Carrying compliant food is essential for travelers with strict dietary needs or allergies.
Saving Money and Time
Airport and onboard food prices can be significantly inflated. By packing your own snacks and meals, you can save a considerable amount of money. This also saves time queuing at airport eateries or waiting for meal services on the plane. Having your food readily available means you can eat when you are hungry, rather than being tied to the airline's schedule. This proactive approach can lead to a more relaxed and cost-effective travel experience.
Creating a Travel-Friendly Snack Kit
Assemble a "travel-friendly snack kit" before your trip. This kit should contain a variety of non-perishable, individually packaged items that are easy to eat and dispose of. Examples include dried fruit mixes, nuts, granola bars, crackers, jerky (check regulations for destination country), and hard candies. For longer flights, consider packing a sealed sandwich or a commercially prepared, shelf-stable meal if allowed. Ensure your kit is organized within your carry-on bag for easy access.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling with Food
The rules for carrying food on international flights can be confusing, leading to many common questions. Addressing these directly helps travelers feel more confident in their packing choices and avoid common mistakes. Understanding the rationale behind the rules—primarily biosecurity and safety—is key to navigating them successfully.
Many travelers wonder about specific items like empty bottles, laser pointers, or perfume, which, while not food, are often queried in the context of carry-on items. It's important to remember that food regulations are distinct from those for other types of carry-on items, though overlap can occur, especially with liquids.
The most reliable approach is always to check the specific regulations of your destination country and the policies of your airline. Official government websites and airline customer service portals are your best resources. When in doubt, it is always better to err on the side of caution and either leave the item behind or declare it upon arrival.
Is Empty Bottle Allowed in Flight?
Yes, empty water bottles are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage. You can fill them up after passing through security at water fountains or purchase drinks to fill them. This is a good way to stay hydrated without buying single-use plastic bottles at the airport, and it adheres to liquid restrictions as the bottle is empty.
Is Laser Pointer Allowed in Flight?
Laser pointers are generally permitted in carry-on and checked baggage. However, their use onboard an aircraft is strictly prohibited for safety reasons. Some countries may have specific regulations regarding their sale or possession, but for travel purposes, they are usually allowed, though their misuse can lead to serious consequences.
Is Perfume Allowed in Flight?
Perfume is permitted in both carry-on and checked baggage. In carry-on, it must adhere to the 3-1-1 liquid rule (containers of 100ml or less, in a 1-liter clear bag). Larger bottles can be placed in checked luggage. Be mindful of strong scents, as some airlines may have policies regarding excessive use of perfumes onboard.
Is Scented Candles Allowed in Flight?
Scented candles are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage. However, safety regulations may apply, especially regarding the wax or any flammable components. It's advisable to check with your airline, as policies can vary. Some airlines might prefer them in checked luggage for safety reasons.
Is Shampoo and Conditioner Allowed in Flight?
Yes, shampoo and conditioner are permitted, but they fall under the liquid restrictions. In carry-on baggage, containers must be 100ml (3.4 oz) or less and fit within your single quart-sized, clear, resealable bag. Larger bottles must be packed in checked baggage.
Is Portable Charger Allowed in Flight?
Portable chargers, also known as power banks, are typically allowed only in carry-on baggage. They contain lithium-ion batteries, which pose a fire risk if damaged or short-circuited, and therefore cannot be placed in checked luggage. Always check with your airline for specific size and capacity limits.
Is Power Bank Allowed to Carry in Flight?
Similar to portable chargers, power banks are permitted in carry-on baggage only. This is a strict rule due to the lithium-ion battery content. Ensure your power bank meets the airline's and regulatory body's specifications for battery size and capacity.