The UK food ban is now in full effect. If you’re traveling from the EU, you must follow new rules. Since April 12, 2025, you can no longer bring items like ham, cheese, or yogurt into Great Britain. The UK government introduced this change to stop the spread of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), which poses a serious threat to British farms.
Why the UK Food Ban Exists
Foot-and-mouth disease spreads fast among animals like cows, pigs, and sheep. Although it doesn’t affect people, it can destroy livestock and ruin farms. Recently, Germany and Hungary reported new outbreaks. As a result, the UK took preventive action by enforcing the food ban.
What the UK Food Ban Prohibits
Under the ban, you cannot bring the following into Great Britain:
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Raw and cured meats (pork, beef, lamb, venison, etc.)
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Dairy items such as milk, cheese, butter, and yogurt
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Food mixes like sandwiches, pasta, or salads with meat/dairy
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Pet food containing restricted animal products
This rule applies to products from all EU countries—even if they are store-bought or sealed. However, travelers from Northern Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man do not face these restrictions.
What the UK Food Ban Still Allows
Despite the ban, you can still carry some items:
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Up to 2kg of sealed powdered baby milk or medical food that doesn’t need chilling
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Poultry, eggs, fish, and honey
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Bread, chocolate, cakes without cream, biscuits, and processed plant products
Check the full list here: UK food import rules
Breaking the UK Food Ban Comes With Penalties
If you ignore the ban, Border Force officers will seize and destroy the prohibited items. In addition, you could pay a fine of up to £5,000. In extreme cases, you may even face legal action.
Therefore, travelers should double-check the latest guidelines before packing food. Border staff increase checks during holidays like Easter and summer break.
How the UK Food Ban Helps Farmers
The UK remembers the 2001 FMD outbreak all too well. During that crisis, the country lost over six million animals. The damage reached £8 billion in costs. By enforcing the food ban, officials hope to prevent another catastrophe. Farmers are encouraged to monitor livestock and report signs of illness early.
Stay Updated on the Food Ban
If you’re planning a trip to or from the EU, stay informed. Rules may change depending on animal health alerts or trade decisions. Therefore, it’s smart to check before every journey.
