UK holidaymakers heading to Europe this summer are being urged not to bring back meat or dairy products – to avert a potential foot and mouth disease outbreak that could devastate British farming.
The warning comes from the UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer as cases of the highly contagious disease rise across Europe, including in Hungary, Austria and Germany.
Foot and mouth disease, which affects cattle, sheep and pigs, can survive in meat, cheese, milk and even sandwiches. It spreads rapidly and, in serious cases, can lead to mass culling of livestock and billions in economic damage.
Strict rules in place
It is illegal to bring untreated meat or dairy products from the EU into Great Britain. That includes holiday snacks such as cheese, pâté, chorizo, serrano ham, yoghurt and butter – even if sealed, packed, or bought at duty-free.
The rules also cover sandwiches or snacks made with lamb, pork, mutton, venison or goat.
The warning comes as the Government updates its Foot and Mouth Control Strategy for the first time in over a decade – aiming to improve how the country prevents, detects and responds to an outbreak.
lessons from 2001
The last major outbreak in 2001 led to the slaughter of over six million animals and cost the UK economy an estimated £15 billion in today’s money. Farmers lost their herds, livelihoods were destroyed, and rural communities were hit hard.
Biosecurity Minister Baroness Hayman said: “Maintaining the integrity of our biosecurity against foot and mouth disease is essential. Do not bring prohibited animal or plant products into the country – doing so puts farmers’ livelihoods at risk.”
New defences on the way
The Government also announced £1 billion in funding last month to build a new National Biosecurity Centre in Surrey. The facility will lead the UK’s response to animal disease threats like foot and mouth, avian flu and swine fever.
Chief Vet Christine Middlemiss added: “I know it’s disappointing not to bring back local produce from your holidays, but please resist. You’ll be helping to protect our farmers and our food supply.”
Anyone who suspects foot and mouth disease in animals must report it immediately by calling the relevant helpline in England, Wales or Scotland.
