Starting from April 12, the UK government has implemented a temporary prohibition on travelers bringing meat and dairy items into Great Britain from the EU. This measure aims to prevent the transmission of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), which poses no human health risks but severely impacts livestock production. Travelers carrying prohibited goods such as cured meats, cheese, or yogurt may face penalties, including fines up to £5,000. The ban excludes powdered infant milk, infant food, and special medical foods. Restrictions apply only to arrivals from the EU into Great Britain.

The highly infectious FMD virus causes painful blisters in livestock and results in significant economic losses for farmers. Although there are currently no confirmed cases in the UK, outbreaks have been reported across Europe, prompting the government to act swiftly. To safeguard British agriculture and food security, farming minister Daniel Zeichner emphasized that the government will implement all necessary measures to protect local farmers.

In response to recent outbreaks in Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria, the UK had already restricted personal imports of live animals and dairy products earlier this year. These actions reflect the country's commitment to preventing another catastrophic event like the 2001 outbreak, which led to the slaughter of millions of animals despite only 2,000 confirmed cases. The last occurrence was in 2007, localized within a small region.

To ensure compliance, customs officials will enforce strict inspections at entry points. While some exemptions exist for essential products, travelers must adhere to these regulations to avoid penalties. By taking these precautionary steps, the UK aims to maintain its agricultural stability and protect against potential trade restrictions resulting from an FMD outbreak.