Travellers returning to UK from France warned over taking sandwiches, dairy, and meat
Restrictions on food imports from earlier this year continue
Iconic ‘jambon-beurre’ sandwiches cannot be brought into the UK this Christmas
Brent Hofacker/Shutterstock
Travellers returning to the UK for the Christmas season are being reminded that food items including meat, sandwiches and dairy products cannot be brought into the country from the EU.
If travellers are found carrying prohibited items, these will be confiscated and destroyed by border officials. In some serious cases fines of up to £5,000 can be issued.
The restrictions apply to all forms of travel including planes, ferries, and the Eurostar.
Foot and mouth concerns persist
The measure forms part of continuing wider UK restrictions on foodstuff imports in the face of a foot and mouth outbreak in Europe earlier this year.
In April, the UK government issued temporary restrictions on imported products from the EU, after a rise in cases of foot and mouth disease in a number of European countries.
“The Government has taken measures to prevent the spread of foot and mouth disease (FMD) following a rising number of cases across Europe.
“Travellers will no longer be able to bring cattle, sheep, goat, and pig meat, as well as dairy products, from EU countries into Great Britain for personal use, to protect the health of British livestock, the security of farmers, and the UK’s food security.”
“This includes bringing items like sandwiches, cheese, cured meats, raw meats or milk into Great Britain – regardless of whether it is packed or packaged or whether it has been bought at duty free.”
The rules remain in place, and a rise in Christmas travellers is prompting companies to re-issue reminders, including Eurostar.
Certain exemptions for some products exist.
“You can bring up to 2kg per person of powdered infant formula, baby food, or special food required for medical reasons. These products must not require refrigeration before use and must be in their original, unopened packaging (unless they are currently being used),” says the UK government.
If you are unsure, check with your travel provider in advance.
You can read our article for an in-depth look at other foodstuff travel restrictions here.
