United Kingdom bans raw milk cheese imports from France and Italy

The United Kingdom has banned the import 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 flies and mosquitoes, has been identified in France and confirmed in Sardinia, Italy.

The ban affects various unpasteurized products, including artisan-produced French cheeses such as Roquefort, Vacherin, Mimolette, Tomme, and certain types of Brie. In Italy, the restrictions impact artisan-produced mozzarella and pecorino, though major brands like Parmesan remain unaffected as they are typically made with pasteurized milk.

Cheeses produced before May 23rd are exempt provided importers can supply the necessary documentation. Consequently, shortages of these specific products are expected to emerge gradually as existing aged stocks are depleted. While these restrictions primarily target commercial imports, they also technically apply to travelers bringing such products into the country.