If you’ve got a European holiday on the cards this summer, then you’re likely looking forward to some delicious food. However, a new law means that these delicious treats have to be enjoyed abroad only.
In April 2025, the UK government introduced a temporary ban on bringing meat and dairy products into the UK from EU countries to help prevent the spread of foot and mouth disease. This means classic holiday food souvenirs like Camembert, chorizo, and Parmesan are now off the menu for UK travellers. Travellers caught breaking these rules face fines of up to £5,000.
The recent ban applies across England, Scotland, and Wales, covering all products containing pork, beef, lamb, and goat, as well as dairy products including butter, cheese, and yoghurt.
If you try to flout the law you run the risk of being fined up to £5000 and having your products destroyed by border control.
Richard Newsome, Head of Product at Saga Holidays said: “While cured meats and cheeses are no longer permitted, this doesn’t mean travellers can’t bring back any edible souvenirs.
“Our survey found that almost two-thirds of Brits were unaware that you can bring back many baked goods, as long as they don’t contain fresh dairy or meat fillings. Roughly a third were also unaware that you can still bring wine, spirits, chocolate and sweets back, highlighting how many Brits may be missing out on these tasty souvenirs.
“Anyone unsure of what they can bring back into the UK should refer to the UK government’s website or speak to Border Force when re-entering the UK airport.”
According to gov.co.uk, you can bring in poultry and fish for Europe as well as some other animal products including eggs and honey. Shellfish, such as mussels or oysters are also allowed, as are snails.
However, snails must be preserved or shelled, cooked and prepared. Frogs legs are also okay, as long as it is the back part of the frog with skin and internal organs removed.
