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British holidaymakers returning from Spain and elsewhere in the EU are now facing tightened restrictions on bringing meat and dairy products into the country, as part of an urgent government effort to prevent the spread of foot and mouth disease (FMD).

 

The temporary ban, introduced without much fanfare over the weekend, affects all meat and cheese products, whether packed, unpackaged or even brought back in a simple sandwich.

 

The UK government has confirmed that travellers from EU countries, including Spain, will have to leave behind any animal-origin foods, regardless of where or how they were purchased. This means that even duty-free items aren't exempt.

 

The restrictions apply to people arriving in Great Britain, but not Northern Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man.

 

While foot and mouth disease poses no threat to human health, the virus is highly contagious among livestock and has the potential to devastate the UK farming industry. Past outbreaks have had severe consequences: in 2001, more than six million animals were culled during a national crisis that left an indelible mark on the agricultural sector. Even the smaller 2007 outbreak required swift action to contain.

 

The decision to extend the ban follows a rise in FMD cases in parts of Europe, with Germany, Hungary, Slovakia and Austria already under similar restrictions. Spain now joins the list of concern as authorities seek to prevent contaminated products from entering Britain and potentially being discarded in ways that could expose domestic livestock or wild animals.

 

The UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has issued a clear warning: any prohibited items found in luggage will be confiscated and destroyed. In more serious instances, passengers could face fines of up to £5,000.

 

The list of restricted items includes:

 

 

Exceptions are made only for infant formula and medically necessary foods, up to a maximum of 2kg per person.

 

Tom Bradshaw, president of the National Farmers Union (NFU), has welcomed the government’s quick response, saying it shows a commitment to protecting British agriculture.

 

As Easter and summer holiday travel picks up, the authorities are urging travellers to check the latest import rules before heading to the airport—and to think twice before packing that chorizo or Manchego cheese in their carry-on.

 

 

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