Business and leisure travellers flying from the UK to the European Union this holiday season are being urged to think twice before carrying airport meal deals across borders.
Under EU biosecurity rules, meat and dairy products brought in from non‑EU countries—including those found in sandwiches and festive snacks—are strictly prohibited and could result in fines or even criminal prosecution.
European Waterways travel expert Maryanne Sparkes explains: “It is safe to consume these sandwiches in the airport or on the plane, but they must be disposed of before disembarking. Carrying them into the EU is not permitted.”
The restrictions form part of wider measures designed to prevent the spread of animal diseases. While travellers may bring limited quantities of fruit, vegetables, eggs, honey, and up to 20kg of fish products, meat and dairy remain off‑limits.
High‑risk items include:
- Turkey with trimmings
- Pigs in blanket sandwiches
- Brie and cranberry
- Ham & cheese
- BLT, turkey & Swiss, egg & bacon, chicken Caesar, chicken & stuffing, ham salad with cheese
Lower‑risk alternatives include:
- Vegan hummus & roasted vegetable
- Falafel & spinach
- Spicy bean & avocado
- Vegan sweet potato & red pepper
- Veggie club (without cheese or mayo)
- Avocado & tomato (without cheese or mayo)
- Chickpea & mango chutney
- Beetroot & falafel
- Mediterranean veggie (without cheese or mayo)
- Curried chickpea & mango
Travellers arriving in the EU may face official inspections, with undeclared prohibited items confiscated and destroyed. The rules apply specifically to passengers entering from the UK following Brexit, adding an extra layer of compliance for cross‑border journeys.
For business travellers, the advice is simple: enjoy your festive meal deal before boarding, but don’t risk carrying it through customs.
For full guidance, see the EU Travel Guidelines.