UK bans raw milk cheese imports from France and Italy

The United Kingdom has implemented a ban on imports of raw milk cheeses from France and Italy, citing food safety concerns. The decision, announced by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), follows outbreaks of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in cattle. The disease, which causes skin lumps and is spread by insects, has been identified in France and recently confirmed in Sardinia, Italy.

The ban specifically targets unpasteurized milk products, impacting various artisan cheeses. In France, affected varieties include Roquefort, Vacherin, Mimolette, Tomme, and certain artisan-produced Bries. In Italy, the restriction affects products such as pecorino and artisan-produced mozzarella, though many large-scale cheeses like Parmesan remain unaffected as they are made with pasteurized milk.

Cheeses produced before May 23rd are exempt provided importers can supply the necessary documentation. Consequently, shortages of certain aged cheeses are expected to appear gradually as existing stocks are depleted. While the ban primarily impacts commercial imports, it also theoretically applies to travelers bringing cheese into the country.