Officials have provided an update on the regulations concerning passengers carrying food into the UK via air travel. Since April of the previous year, individuals face the risk of having their items seized at the border and may be subject to fines of up to £5,000.
The restrictions were put in place due to an outbreak of foot and mouth disease in various parts of Europe. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has banned the importation of items such as sandwiches, cheese, cured meats, raw meats, and milk into Great Britain.
In a recent development, travelers heading to Greece have been cautioned about a new outbreak in the region. Consequently, the prohibition on all food items, including those purchased at duty-free shops, will be extended. The UK government has taken steps to restrict certain commercial imports from Greece to Great Britain.
Only commercial imports of milk, colostrum, and related products like feta and yogurt are allowed if they have undergone the necessary heat treatment and are accompanied by the required health certificate.
The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs stated that travelers are not permitted to bring cattle, sheep, goat, pig meat, and dairy products from EU nations into Great Britain for personal use due to the increasing number of disease cases in mainland Europe. Travelers are advised to ensure they do not bring these products into the country.
The UK Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Christine Middlemiss, confirmed a case of Foot and Mouth disease in Greece and highlighted the importance of vigilance among livestock keepers to prevent disease spread and maintain food security.
Labour MP Ben Goldsborough raised concerns in Parliament about the communication of risks to the public regarding diseases such as foot and mouth and African swine fever. DEFRA minister Dame Angela Eagle outlined the extensive measures taken to inform the public about the import prohibition and emphasized the government’s commitment to biosecurity.
Any decision on funding public awareness campaigns will be based on the level of threat, effectiveness of previous efforts, and available resources to ensure the protection of UK biosecurity.
Prohibited items include certain food products, while some items can be brought into Great Britain from any country without restrictions.