A UK airport has issued a warning that travellers may be unknowingly risking a £5,000 fine by carrying certain sandwiches onto flights. Many passengers routinely purchase food at airports or pack their own meals without encountering issues. However, London Luton Airport has highlighted the legal reality, which could catch many off guard.
What the Law States
A post from the airport's official X account explains: "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." This guidance applies to all airports across England, Scotland, and Wales. If caught carrying prohibited items—including sandwiches containing meat or dairy—and failing to declare them to Border Force officers at customs, individuals could face prosecution or a £5,000 fine (applicable in England only).
Rules by Region of Origin
Regulations concerning meat, dairy, fish, and other animal products vary depending on the country of origin. For travellers returning from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland, the following items are banned:
- Cheese, milk, and dairy products (e.g., butter, yoghurt)
- Pork, beef, lamb, mutton, goat, venison
- Other products made from these meats, such as sausages
Permitted items for personal use include:
- Fish
- Poultry (e.g., chicken, duck, goose) and products made from these meats
- Other animal products, such as eggs and honey
Additionally, up to 2 kg per person of powdered infant milk, infant food, or special medical food is allowed, provided it does not require refrigeration before use and is in branded, unopened packaging (unless currently in use).
Non-EU Countries
For travellers arriving from countries outside the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland, all meat, meat products, milk, and milk-based products are prohibited, except for powdered infant milk, infant food, or special medical food. Permitted items include:
- Honey
- Up to 2 kg per person of powdered infant milk, infant food, or special medical food (including pet food) that does not require refrigeration and is in branded, unopened packaging (unless in current use)
- Live mussels or oysters
- Snails (preserved or shelled, cooked and prepared)
- Frogs' legs (back part only, skin and internal organs removed)
- Insect protein
Up to 20 kg per person in total of fish is allowed, including fresh fish (must be gutted), fish products, processed fish (dried, cooked, cured, or smoked), lobsters, and prawns.
Travellers are strongly advised to check current regulations before flying to avoid unexpected fines or legal action.
