Holidaymakers returning to Great Britain from EU countries such as Spain, France, Italy, and Greece face fines of up to £5,000 if they attempt to bring certain food items through customs. The restrictions, introduced earlier this year, aim to prevent the spread of foot and mouth disease (FMD), which has seen an increase in cases across Europe.
The banned items include sandwiches, cheese, cured meats, raw meats, and milk. These rules apply regardless of whether the products are wrapped, packaged, or purchased at duty-free shops. Authorities have stated that those found with these items will either have to hand them over at the border or face confiscation and destruction. In serious cases, individuals could incur fines of up to £5,000 in England.
The government has implemented these measures to protect British livestock from FMD, a highly contagious viral disease affecting cattle, sheep, pigs, and other cloven-hoofed animals. Although FMD poses no risk to humans, it can lead to substantial economic losses for farmers and the UK's food security.
Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner said: "This government will do whatever it takes to protect British farmers from foot and mouth disease. That is why we are further strengthening protections by introducing restrictions on personal meat and dairy imports." UK Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Jorge Martin-Almagro added: "Following the detection of foot and mouth disease in EU countries, which raises the risk of introduction into Great Britain, we have extended restrictions on personal imports of food products that pose a risk for FMD transmission."
Certain exemptions remain in effect, including small quantities of baby formula, medicinal foods, and specific composite items such as chocolate, sweets, bread, cakes, biscuits, and pasta. The restrictions apply only to travellers arriving in Great Britain and do not affect personal imports from Northern Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man.
