UK Tourists Warned of Huge Fines for Carrying Sandwiches with Meat or Dairy into the EU

Published on November 18, 2025

As UK tourists continue to travel to the European Union (EU), new post-Brexit regulations have raised concerns about the humble sandwich and other travel snacks. Following stricter biosecurity measures, the EU now enforces tighter rules on the importation of animal products, including meat and dairy, from non-EU countries. UK travelers have been warned that carrying these items in their luggage or hand luggage could result in hefty fines or even criminal prosecution.

The recent alert comes after a rise in awareness of these regulations, particularly for travelers passing through airports like Birmingham, where a meal deal from Boots is a popular option. Many passengers are unaware that while it’s safe to consume these products in the airport or on the plane, they must be disposed of before entering the EU or risk facing consequences.

What’s at Risk and How to Avoid Fines

According to travel experts, bringing meat or dairy products from the UK into the EU can lead to fines or the confiscation and destruction of the items upon arrival. This includes popular items such as sandwiches from airport meal deals, which often contain deli meats or cheese. While fruit, vegetables, and eggs are still allowed in limited quantities, animal-derived products, particularly meat and dairy, are now highly restricted due to heightened biosecurity concerns post-Brexit.

Here’s what UK travelers need to know:

• Meat and Dairy Products: Travelers are not allowed to bring any meat or dairy products into the EU from non-EU countries, including the UK. This includes sandwiches and snacks purchased in the UK before departure.
• Exceptions: Some items, like limited quantities of fish (up to 20 kg or one whole fish) and honey, may be allowed, but travelers must declare them.
• Concessions for Concession Passes: For individuals with special passes or concessions, the regulations may vary, but travelers should always check the latest guidelines.

The EU’s stricter rules come as part of ongoing efforts to prevent the spread of animal diseases. After the UK’s exit from the EU, these regulations specifically target travelers arriving from the UK, which has increased the scrutiny of products brought into EU countries.

The Impact on Tourists: How to Travel Without Risk

For the millions of UK tourists flying to the EU each year, these changes can feel overwhelming, especially for those used to grabbing a quick sandwich or snack before their flight. While the EU has implemented these new biosecurity measures to protect local ecosystems and agriculture, they may come as a surprise to many travelers.

Here are some key tips to help UK tourists avoid fines or complications when traveling to the EU:

• Check Food Items Before Your Flight: If you are traveling to the EU from the UK, double-check your carry-on bags to ensure you’re not bringing in prohibited food items like sandwiches with meat or dairy. While these can be consumed at the airport or on the plane, you must dispose of them before reaching your destination.
• Declare Any Restricted Items: If you are bringing food items like fish or honey, make sure to declare them upon arrival to avoid issues with customs.
• Opt for Safe Snacks: Consider packing snacks like fruits, nuts, or sealed packaged items that are allowed into the EU. These are both safe and easy to carry without risking fines.
• Use Concession Passes Wisely: Passengers with special concessions (e.g., older adults or those with disabilities) should ensure that they understand how these rules apply to them, as some exceptions may exist for certain groups.

Business and Tourist Travel Impact

While tourists are the most affected by these changes, business travelers flying from the UK to the EU may also feel the impact. The increased regulation means that businesses must be more cautious about food brought into meetings or shared in international business contexts. For those attending conferences, events, or business lunches, it’s important to be aware that bringing food from the UK may be scrutinized by EU customs.

However, for both tourists and business travelers, the risk of a fine can be avoided with proper planning and understanding of the new travel regulations. Knowing the restrictions ahead of time allows travelers to take necessary precautions and avoid potential legal or financial consequences.

Additional Information for Tourists Traveling to the EU

• Travel Documentation: Ensure your travel documents are up to date. Since the UK left the EU, customs checks can be more thorough, and travelers should have their passports ready for inspection.
• Know What’s Allowed: Review the latest EU travel regulations on the European Commission website or consult the UK Government’s travel advice for up-to-date information about what can and cannot be carried into the EU.
• Biosecurity Measures: The EU’s stricter biosecurity rules apply not just to food but also to plants and certain animal-derived products. Make sure to review any restrictions if you plan to bring these items as well.
• Alternative Travel Snacks: Consider using local services for snacks and meals once you’ve passed through customs in the EU, where the risk of non-compliance is eliminated.

Quick Step-by-Step Guide to Avoid Fines:

1. Before Departure:
   • Check your carry-on bags for any sandwiches, snacks, or foods that contain meat or dairy products.
   • Replace any prohibited items with fruit, vegetables, or other safe snacks.
   • Consider consuming your sandwich before boarding if it contains meat or dairy.
2. Upon Arrival in the EU:
   • Be prepared for increased scrutiny by customs officers, particularly if you are carrying animal-derived products.
   • Declare any restricted food items to avoid fines or confiscation.
3. In the EU:
   • Dispose of any sandwiches or snacks that contain meat or dairy products immediately upon arrival in the EU, either before exiting the plane or at the terminal.
   • Enjoy the local food options available at the airport or nearby restaurants.

Conclusion

UK tourists traveling to the EU need to be more vigilant than ever before when it comes to carrying food items. The risk of fines for bringing in meat or dairy products into the EU is high, with serious consequences for both tourists and business travelers who fail to comply. By staying informed and adhering to the latest travel guidelines, UK passengers can avoid fines and continue to enjoy their EU travels without disruption. Whether for business or leisure, ensuring that your snacks comply with the rules can help keep your journey smooth and hassle-free.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated