UK bans personal EU dairy imports due to disease concerns

UK – The United Kingdom has imposed a ban on personal imports of meat and dairy products from the European Union, effective April 12, 2025, to safeguard its agricultural sector from a spreading foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in Europe. 

The decision, reported by the UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, prohibits travelers from bringing cattle, sheep, goat, and pig meat, as well as dairy items like cheese and milk, into Great Britain for personal use.

The restrictions aim to protect British livestock and ensure food security as the highly contagious viral disease affects cloven-hoofed animals across several EU countries. 

According to a report by the government, earlier measures targeted imports from Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria following confirmed outbreaks. 

The expanded EU-wide ban now covers items such as sandwiches, cured meats, and raw dairy, regardless of packaging or purchase location, including duty-free shops.

“This government will do whatever it takes to protect British farmers from foot-and-mouth,” said Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner. 

“That’s why we are strengthening protections by introducing these restrictions to prevent the spread of the disease.”

Travelers caught with prohibited items face confiscation, with goods seized and destroyed at the border. In England, serious violations could lead to fines of up to US$6,400. 

Limited exemptions exist for infant milk, medical foods, and certain composite products like chocolate and biscuits. 

The rules do not apply to goods from Northern Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man.

A report by the National Farmers’ Union emphasizes the need for stricter border controls while the disease’s source remains unidentified in parts of Europe. 

“The government must ensure passengers are aware of the new rules and that Border Force has the resources to enforce them,” said Union President Tom Bradshaw.

The outbreak has already disrupted trade, with earlier bans causing over US$1.28 million in losses for the UK’s food industry due to stranded imports, as noted in a January 2025 report.

While foot-and-mouth poses no risk to humans, it can devastate livestock, leading to significant economic losses from reduced production and export restrictions.

The UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant, with no cases reported domestically. 

The government is also exploring a permanent biosecurity plan to strengthen future protections, reflecting growing concerns over animal disease risks in global travel and trade. 

Authorities are increasing public awareness campaigns to ensure compliance and minimize disruptions at entry points.

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