British tourists heading to Europe this summer have been warned about simple mistakes that could lead to serious trouble with EU authorities.
Holiday manufacturers traveling from the UK could face fines and criminal prosecutions for bringing innocent things like sandwiches into EU countries due to strict regulations regarding meat and dairy imports, MailOnline reports.
Maryne Sparks, a European waterway, issued a harsh warning to British travelers. “If you travel to the EU from a country other than the EU, you will not be allowed to bring any meat or dairy products.
Many may not be aware, but post-Brexit rules mean that the UK is currently classified as a non-EU country, and Britons must follow the same strict regulations as all other non-EU visitors.
Maryanne added: “On arrival in the EU, authorities may need to be under official control. If they carry undeclared meat or dairy products, they will be confiscated and destroyed.
According to the European Commission, items containing “meat, milk, or its products” can “subject real risks to animal health across the Union.”
Maryanne explained: “It's safe to consume these sandwiches at airports and planes, but they should be disposed of before you get off the plane or as soon as you enter the terminal on the other side.
“Make sure meat and dairy products are not transported to the EU to avoid fines and potential criminal prosecutions.”
These restrictions apply to most animal products, with a few exceptions. Powdered infant milk and baby food are permitted along with up to 20kg of fish or 2kg of honey, live oysters, mussels and snails.
This rule applies only to people entering the EU from non-member countries. Therefore, travelers between EU countries and travelers from places such as Norway, Switzerland, Andorra or Iceland are exempt.
As the holiday season begins, experts are urging Brits to carefully check their luggage and avoid carrying prohibited groceries.
