The UK government has confirmed that restrictions on passengers bringing food into the country by air will remain in place following a new outbreak of foot and mouth disease in Greece. The ban, in effect since April last year, prohibits items such as sandwiches, cheese, cured meats, raw meats, and milk from being brought into Great Britain from EU countries.
Travellers risk having items confiscated at the UK border and could face fines of up to £5,000. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has also applied restrictions on certain Greek commercial imports, including milk, colostrum, and their products like feta and yoghurt, which are only permitted if heat-treated and accompanied by a health certificate.
UK Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Christine Middlemiss said: “A case of Foot and Mouth disease has been confirmed in Greece, we are in contact with our European counterparts to understand the latest situation. Robust plans are already in place to minimise the risk of disease incursion to support Britain’s farming community and food security.”
Labour MP Ben Goldsborough raised concerns in a parliamentary question about public awareness, asking Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds about funding campaigns at airports and ports. DEFRA minister Dame Angela Eagle responded that over 90% of travellers are aware of the ban, and any future paid campaigns will depend on the threat level and resources.
Livestock keepers are urged to remain vigilant for signs of disease and report any suspicions immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.
