UK to tighten restrictions on travellers from Hungary due to contagious disease

Heading to the UK from Hungary? Think twice before packing that ham sandwich. In a bid to curb the spread of foot-and-mouth disease, the UK has rolled out a strict ban on personal imports of meat and dairy products from all EU countries, including Hungary. The new rules, now in force, cover everything from meats and cheeses to milk and pre-packed snacks, regardless of where they were bought.

Can’t take sandwiches to the UK

VG reports that in response to the ongoing spread of foot-and-mouth disease across the continent, the UK government has expanded its ban on personal imports of meat and dairy products to cover all EU countries, including Hungary. The ban, which took effect immediately, prohibits travellers entering the United Kingdom from bringing in beef, veal, pork, lamb, goat products, and all dairy items for personal use. This includes sandwiches, cheeses, cured and raw meats, and milk, regardless of packaging or whether purchased in duty-free shops.

The measure is designed to protect British livestock, support UK farmers, and ensure national food security. Travellers must surrender any restricted items at the border or face fines of up to GBP 5,000. While the disease poses no risk to humans and there are currently no cases in the UK, foot-and-mouth is a highly contagious viral infection affecting animals such as cattle, pigs, and deer.