UK bans personal meat, dairy imports from EU

UK's holidaymakers returning from European trips laden with gourmet goods like cured meat and fine cheese will now face new border restrictions, as the UK government enforces a ban on personal imports of meat and dairy from EU countries.

The new rules, which came into effect on April 12, prohibit travelers from bringing in beef, pork, lamb, goat meat, or any dairy products from the EU for personal use, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media. 

The move aims to prevent the spread of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), following a recent increase in cases across parts of Europe. Even small items like ham and cheese sandwiches will be seized at the border.

As customs authorities clarified: “Cured meats, raw meats and milk are off limits regardless of whether they are packed, packaged or have been bought at duty-free.” Though FMD does not infect humans, it can devastate livestock. The UK is currently free of the disease and is taking steps to prevent its return. FMD is a highly infectious virus that impacts animals such as cattle, pigs, sheep, and wild deer. 

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said the European outbreak “presents a significant risk to farm businesses and livestock” and warned of “significant economic losses due to production shortfalls in the affected animals, as well as loss of access to foreign markets for animals, meat and dairy.” The ban applies only to travelers entering Great Britain and does not affect personal imports to Northern Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man. 

Food Security Minister Daniel Zeichner stated: “This government will do whatever it takes to protect British farmers from foot-and-mouth.” Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer Jorge Martin-Almagro added: “This biosecurity measure… is critical to limit the risk of FMD incursion.” Limited exemptions apply, including infant formula, medical foods, and processed items like chocolate and bread. The government warned of fines up to 5,000 pounds for violations.

By Naila Huseynova