Great Britain is imposing travel restrictions on EU traders arriving in the country, banning imports of meat from cattle, sheep, goats, or pigs, as well as dairy products, to prevent the spread of foot-and-mouth disease.
Travellers arriving in Great Britain will face a ban on importing meat from cattle, sheep, goats, or pigs, as well as dairy products, from EU countries. This measure aims to prevent the spread of ‘foot-and-mouth disease’ (FMD) after a rise in cases across Europe.
What Foods Are Affected?
Cured meats, raw meats, and milk are off-limits regardless of packaging or purchase location. Even sandwiches with offending items such as cheese and ham will be stopped by customs and excise. The ban applies to personal imports, not commercial shipments.
The European Union (EU) has strict regulations and standards for food products, ensuring a high level of quality and safety.
EU-sourced food products must meet these requirements, which include labeling, packaging, and production standards.
These products often carry the 'Protected Designation of Origin' (PDO) or 'Protected Geographical Indication' (PGI) labels, indicating their origin and quality.
In 2020, the EU exported over €100 billion worth of food products, with top exports including wine, cheese, and olive oil.
The Risk of Foot-and-Mouth Disease
FMD is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cattle, sheep, pigs, and other cloven-hoofed animals. While it does not directly affect humans, it can be devastating to livestock. The government wants to prevent the spread of FMD in the UK to protect farm businesses and livestock.
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral infection affecting cloven-hoofed animals, such as cattle, pigs, and sheep.
Caused by the FMD virus, it leads to lesions on the feet and mouth of infected animals, causing pain and discomfort.
According to the World Organization for Animal Health, FMD has been reported in over 100 countries worldwide, with significant economic impacts due to trade restrictions and culling of affected herds.
Exemptions
There are some exemptions from the new rules. A limited amount of infant milk, medical foods, and certain composite products such as chocolate, confectionery, bread, cakes, biscuits, and pasta are allowed. Those found with these items will need to either surrender them at the border or have them seized and destroyed.
Enforcement
The government has stated that those found in breach of the new rules may incur fines of up to £5,000 in England. The ban applies only to travellers arriving in Great Britain and does not affect personal imports arriving in Northern Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man.
