Holidaymakers are being warned they could risk a fine after buying a meal deal before their flight to Europe.
According to European Waterways, a travel expert group, bringing any meat or dairy products from the UK into the EU could result in a fine for travellers. Maryanne Sparkes, travel expert, says: “If you travel to the EU from a non-EU country, you are not allowed to bring any meat or dairy products with you – this includes those you would find in a meal deal sandwich.”
She further added: “It is safe to consume these sandwiches in the airport and on the plane, but they must be disposed of either before you get off the flight or as soon as you enter the terminal at the other side. To avoid fines or potential criminal prosecution, ensure that any meat or dairy products are not carried into the EU.
“You can however bring a limited quantity of fruit and vegetables as well as eggs, egg products and honey. Restricted quantities of fish or fish products are as long as they weigh no more than 20 kilograms (kg) or the equivalent weight of one whole fish, whichever is heavier.”
The sandwiches most at risk of fines include Chicken & Bacon, Ham & Cheese, BLT (Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato) and Turkey & Swiss as well as Egg & Bacon, Chicken Caesar, Chicken & Stuffing, Ham Salad with Cheese, Beef & Horseradish and Tuna Mayo & Sweetcorn, reports BirminghamLive. “When arriving in the EU, you may have to undergo official controls by the authorities,” said Maryanne.
“If you are carrying any undeclared meat or dairy products, they will be confiscated and destroyed. Additionally, you may be fined or face criminal prosecution.”
“You may carry animal-derived products when travelling within the EU. However, most EU countries have strict regulations on transporting endangered animals or plants, or products derived from them, and in some cases, a permit may be required.
“These new regulations are part of stricter biosecurity measures implemented by the EU to prevent the spread of animal diseases. While travellers have always been restricted from bringing in certain animal products from non-EU countries, the new rules specifically target those coming from the UK following its exit from the European Union. So, the next time you’re catching a flight from the UK to the EU, be sure to double-check your baggage and avoid packing any fish or meat products unless you want to risk a fine.”