Experts warn British people of fines for bringing meat or dairy products into Lanzarote

After Brexit, the biosanitary legislation in the EU and the United Kingdom is no longer the same. Yes, they can bring fruit and vegetables.

EKN

June 18 2025 (11:48 WEST)
Updated in June 18 2025 (16:32 WEST)
pasajeros a bordo de un vuelo
pasajeros a bordo de un vuelo

After Brexit, the biosanitary regulations of the European Union and the United Kingdom are no longer the same, and a traveler arriving in Lanzarote, and therefore in the community territory, could be fined for entering with a sandwich with meat or dairy products made in their country.

The warning has been issued by European Waterways, an international company based in Berkshire, England, specializing in travel, which operates a fleet of 17 river cruises on rivers and canals in Europe. 

The English company, which transforms old commercial ships into hotels, has reminded that "British tourists entering the EU are prohibited from introducing dairy or meat products, even if it is a simple sandwich from the airport." 

They remind that the product can be confiscated and its owner fined or even prosecuted. The rule is not new, but confusion among British travelers still exists and is a growing trend at EU border friction points after Brexit.

According to community legislation, meat, dairy products, and any product containing them from third countries such as the United Kingdom are prohibited in the EU.

Marianne Sparkes, a travel expert at European Waterways, explained that it is safe to consume the sandwiches on board, but they must be discarded before getting off the flight or immediately after landing; otherwise, you are technically violating the rule.

The note explains that in community airports such as those in Barcelona or Lisbon, controls on food from third countries have been intensified.

They also remind of the products that can be introduced, such as fruits and vegetables, eggs, egg products, honey, and fish products up to 20 kg in weight.

 

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