British travellers returning from the EU or EEA can no longer bring meat or dairy products into Great Britain, following new Government rules that took effect on Saturday, 12 April.

The restrictions include everyday items like cheese, butter, cured meats, and even pre-made sandwiches containing meat or cheese. The move aims to prevent the spread of foot-and-mouth disease, a highly contagious virus affecting livestock, which has recently reappeared in parts of Europe.

In a social media announcement, the Government stated:
“You can no longer bring meat or dairy products from EU or EEA countries into Great Britain for personal use. This includes beef, pork, lamb, mutton, venison and goat meat, as well as dairy products like cheese, butter or yoghurt.”

Travellers heading abroad for Easter were urged to double-check what foods are allowed before returning to avoid having them confiscated.

The new rules have surprised many holidaymakers—particularly those on short trips—who often purchase local delicacies as souvenirs or travel snacks. Even store-bought and sealed products are now banned under the tightened regulations.

These changes apply only to England, Scotland, and Wales. Travellers entering from Northern Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man are not affected.

According to the Government, the measures are in place “to protect the health of British livestock, the security of farmers, and the UK's food supply,” even though there are currently no active cases of foot-and-mouth in the UK. However, recent outbreaks in several European countries have increased the risk of the disease reaching British shores.

The ban builds on existing restrictions previously in place for countries such as Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary.

There are limited exceptions: travellers can bring up to 2kg per person of powdered infant milk, baby food, or medically necessary special food, as long as it’s in unopened, branded packaging and doesn’t require refrigeration.

While foot-and-mouth disease poses no risk to humans, it can devastate livestock industries. The last major outbreak in the UK in 2001 led to mass culling and severe economic damage.

Holidaymakers are advised to check the most up-to-date travel rules before packing any food products.

Full list of banned items includes:

- Pork

- Beef

- Lamb

- Mutton

- Goat

- Venison

- Any products made from these meats, including sausages

- Milk and dairy products (e.g., butter, cheese, yoghurt). Photo by dannyman, Wikimedia commons.