The UK government has introduced a ban on personal imports of certain meat and dairy products from EU countries to protect British livestock from foot and mouth disease (FMD). From 12 April, travellers arriving in Great Britain are prohibited from bringing cattle, sheep, goat, and pig meat, as well as dairy products, for personal use. This includes items such as sandwiches, cheese, cured meats, raw meats, and milk, regardless of whether they are packaged or bought duty-free.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) implemented the restrictions following an increase in FMD cases across Europe. The disease poses no risk to humans but is highly contagious among cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, sheep, pigs, and deer. Outbreaks have been confirmed in Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria, prompting earlier bans on imports from those countries.
Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner said the government will do whatever it takes to protect British farmers from foot and mouth. UK Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Jorge Martin-Almagro urged livestock keepers to maintain vigilance and report any signs of disease immediately. The ban applies only to travellers entering Great Britain, not to those arriving from Northern Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man.
Exceptions include small quantities of baby milk, medical foods, and certain composite products like chocolate, sweets, bread, cakes, biscuits, and pasta. Travellers caught with prohibited items must surrender them at the border or face confiscation and disposal. In severe cases, fines of up to £5,000 may be imposed.
