The UK government has issued a temporary ban on bringing cheese and certain meats from the European Union (EU) into the country to help prevent the spread of foot and mouth disease.
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But what does this mean for you, and should you be concerned? The ban prohibits the importation of various meats from the EU, including pork, beef, lamb, mutton, goat, venison, and any products derived from them (such as sausages). This restriction also applies to pet food.
Additionally, all milk and dairy products like butter, cheese, and yogurt from the EU are banned. This includes items such as sandwiches and cured meats, regardless of packaging or if they were purchased at duty-free shops. Exceptions are made for chicken, duck, goose, and related products. This measure specifically targets individuals arriving in Great Britain—i.e., England, Wales, or Scotland—from the EU. It does not affect Northern Ireland, which has its own regulations regarding foot and mouth disease control. The ban applies to travelers using any form of transport, be it plane, train, bus, or car, but will not impact those coming from Northern Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man. The restrictions apply only to personal items brought by travelers, not to commercial shipments from farmers or shops.
According to the UK government, commercial imports of meat and cheese adhere to stricter regulations, including mandatory heat treatment to eliminate germs and health certificates signed by veterinarians. While foot and mouth disease primarily spreads among animals through direct contact, they can also become infected by consuming contaminated meat or dairy products. Any animal-origin products could potentially be tainted with the disease. If disposed of improperly, these products could pose a risk to wildlife or livestock. Foot and mouth disease poses no threat to humans and there are currently no cases in the UK, but it is extremely contagious among animals. It affects cattle, sheep, pigs, and other cloven-hoofed animals such as wild boars and llamas. Infected animals may develop high fevers and blisters, often leading to lameness, and can be fatal to very young individuals.
The Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs enacted the ban on Saturday, April 12, with no specified end date. According to the BBC, the ban will remain until the government assesses that there is no longer a significant risk from travelers bringing in the banned products. The government issued a press release the Friday before the ban took effect, directing airlines and border control to inform travelers about the rules, alongside a digital and social media campaign. Eurostar has also been alerting passengers via email. However, many travelers from the EU to Great Britain since the ban began reported to the BBC that they were unaware of the new restrictions—citing a lack of signage in airports and no customs checks. Travelers are urged to comply with the rules, as prohibited items may be confiscated and destroyed at the border. In serious cases, offenders could face fines up to £5,000 in England.