Ban on importing cheese and meat to Britain: what to bring from Europe now.

Restrictions on food imports to Great Britain ahead of the holidays

According to The Sun: Many people love to bring home a piece of festive cheer in the form of souvenirs, especially at Christmas. However, due to the ban on importing certain food products, such as camembert, prosciutto, or chorizo, British travelers are left without their favorite treats.

Traditions and new rules

For many Britons, it's become a tradition to visit markets on Christmas Eve or travel to France for delicious sausages and cheeses. However, starting April 12, 2025, a ban on importing certain products will be implemented due to the detection of Foot-and-Mouth Disease in the EU.

These rules apply to all types of transportation and are available on the GOV.UK website. Among the banned products are pork, beef, lamb, goat, venison, as well as sausages, hams, and other delicacies.

Moreover, dairy products cannot be imported: cheeses, milk, yoghurts, and butter will remain outside the country.

Which products can be imported

Travelers from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland can bring certain products, including fish, chicken, eggs, and honey.

From other countries, the import of up to 2 kg of honey, mollusks, snails, frog legs, and insect meat is allowed. You can also bring in up to 20 kg of fresh fish.

However, travelers can also treat themselves to something else – such as bread, cookies (without fresh creams), candies, meat-free pasta, packaged soups, and plant products.

The ban is temporary and, according to preliminary data, will be lifted later.

Tasty souvenirs from abroad

From Spain, a popular Christmas gift is turrón – a sweet nougat made from honey, almonds, and egg whites. From Portugal, a bottle of wine, such as port or white from the Vinho Verde region, would be a nice addition.

Greek honey is also in demand, and olives can make a tasty addition to the Christmas cheese platter. Italy offers many treats, such as cantucci and amaretti, as well as a packet of ground espresso for breakfast during the holidays.

Thus, despite the new restrictions, the Christmas spirit can be preserved by finding alternatives and enjoying festive treats from various corners of the world. Travelers should be mindful of the rules to avoid unpleasant situations at the border and to fully enjoy the holidays.