A UK airport has issued a warning that travellers may be unknowingly breaking the law by carrying sandwiches containing meat or dairy products, potentially facing a hefty £5,000 fine. While many passengers routinely purchase or pack food for flights without incident, London Luton Airport has clarified the legal restrictions that apply when entering Great Britain from the European Union and other specified regions.
What the Law States
In a post on X, the airport's official account stated: 'It is illegal to bring meats such as lamb, pork or beef or dairy products from the EU into GB in your luggage. This means items such as cheese, cured or raw meats, sandwiches and milk, including duty free purchases.' The guidance applies to all airports across England, Scotland, and Wales. Travellers caught carrying prohibited items, including sandwiches with meat or dairy, who fail to declare them to Border Force officers at customs could face prosecution or a £5,000 fine in England.
Rules for EU and Specified Countries
When returning from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland, you are banned from bringing in the following: cheese, milk and dairy products like butter and yoghurt; pork; beef; lamb; mutton; goat; venison; and other products made from these meats, such as sausages. However, you can bring in fish, poultry (e.g., chicken, duck, goose) and products made from them, as well as other animal products like eggs and honey, for personal use. Additionally, up to 2kg per person of powdered infant milk, infant food, or special medical food is allowed, provided it does not require refrigeration and is in branded, unopened packaging unless currently in use.
Rules for Non-EU Countries
If travelling from a country outside the EU and the specified regions, you are prohibited from bringing any meat or meat products, or milk or milk-based products, except powdered infant milk, infant food, or special medical food. You may bring up to 2kg per person of honey, powdered infant milk or food, special medical food (including pet food), live mussels or oysters, preserved or shelled snails, frogs' legs (back part only, skin and organs removed), and insect protein. You can also bring up to 20kg per person of fish, including fresh gutted fish, processed fish (dried, cooked, cured, or smoked), lobsters, and prawns.
Travellers are advised to check the latest government guidance before packing food items to avoid penalties.
