Starting this weekend, travelers arriving in Great Britain will no longer be allowed to bring meat and dairy products from EU countries into the UK for personal use. The ban, effective from Saturday, aims to prevent the spread of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) after rising cases across Europe. This move restricts items like cured meats, raw meats, and dairy, even those purchased at duty-free shops. The UK government has emphasized that this action is essential to protect the nation’s livestock and agricultural industries from the disease.
Background on Foot-and-Mouth Disease
Foot-and-mouth disease is a viral infection affecting cattle, sheep, pigs, and other cloven-hoofed animals. While FMD does not directly impact humans, it can devastate farm animals, leading to economic losses. The disease is highly contagious and spreads quickly among livestock. Despite no current cases in the UK, the government is implementing measures to prevent any outbreaks. FMD can lead to significant economic setbacks, including reduced production and the loss of access to foreign markets for affected meat and dairy products.
Government Action
The Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) stated that the outbreak in Europe poses a “significant risk” to the UK’s farm businesses and livestock. To mitigate this threat, the UK government introduced new import restrictions, barring the entry of meat from cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs, as well as dairy products from EU nations.
In a statement, Daniel Zeichner, the Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs, confirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding British farmers: “This government will do whatever it takes to protect British farmers from foot-and-mouth. That is why we are further strengthening protections by introducing restrictions on personal meat and dairy imports to prevent the spread of the disease and protect Britain’s food security.”
Impact on Travelers
From Saturday, tourists and travelers returning to Great Britain from the EU will face stricter checks at customs. Any meat or dairy products from the prohibited categories will be confiscated. This includes items like cheese, ham, and other cured meats, even if they are packed or bought duty-free. Tourists will be asked to surrender the items at the border or face potential penalties.
The UK government has stated that violators could face fines of up to £5,000 in serious cases. Travelers are advised to check the latest regulations before traveling to avoid issues at the border.
Exemptions to the Ban
There are some exceptions to the new rules. Small quantities of infant milk, medical foods, and specific composite items such as chocolates, biscuits, cakes, and pasta will still be allowed. However, these items must meet certain conditions, and travelers should be prepared to comply with customs requirements.
No Impact on Other UK Regions
The import ban applies solely to travelers entering Great Britain. It will not affect Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, or the Channel Islands. However, authorities in these regions may have their own biosecurity measures in place.
Government’s Biosecurity Plans
Jorge Martin-Almagro, the UK’s deputy chief veterinary officer for international and trade affairs, emphasized that the UK has strong contingency plans to manage the risk of FMD. He noted, “This biosecurity measure, combined with others we have implemented, is critical to limit the risk of FMD incursion.” Martin-Almagro urged livestock keepers to remain vigilant for signs of the disease and report any suspicions immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
