This ban includes items such as sandwiches, cheese, cured meats, raw meats, and milk, regardless of whether they are packed or packaged, or purchased duty-free
The UK Government has implemented measures to prevent the spread of foot and mouth disease (FMD) following a rise in cases across Europe.
According to a recent press release, travellers will no longer be allowed to bring meat from cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs, as well as dairy products, from EU countries into Great Britain for personal use. This decision aims to protect the health of British livestock, ensure the security of farmers, and maintain the UK’s food security.
This ban includes items such as sandwiches, cheese, cured meats, raw meats, and milk, regardless of whether they are packed or packaged, or purchased duty-free.
Although FMD poses no risk to humans and there are currently no cases in the UK, it is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cattle, sheep, pigs, and other cloven-hoofed animals, including wild boar, deer, llamas, and alpacas. The ongoing outbreak in Europe presents a significant risk to farm businesses and livestock in the UK.
FMD can lead to substantial economic losses due to reduced production in affected animals and loss of access to foreign markets for livestock, meat, and dairy products.
Earlier this year, the Government banned personal imports of cattle, sheep, and other ruminants, as well as pig meat and dairy products, from Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria in response to confirmed outbreaks in those countries.
The newly announced EU-wide restrictions aim to better safeguard the UK against evolving disease risks and provide clear guidelines for travellers, helping them comply with the regulations. These restrictions apply only to travellers arriving in Great Britain and do not affect personal imports from Northern Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey.
