Travel agents and holiday representatives are being encouraged to advise clients about important European Union (EU) personal food imports rules detailing what can and can’t be brought into the United Kingdom (UK) from countries outside the EU after research found some holidaymakers were unaware.

Research by the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (Defra) found that 55% of holiday makers would like their travel agent or holiday representative to advise them on the issue. The Government’s “Don’t bring it back!” campaign is encouraging the travel industry to help travellers and ensure they don’t inadvertently break the law and also avoid the embarrassing situation of having bags searched and food products seized when returning to the UK.

Travel agents and holiday representatives are in a strong position to explain that the rules are in place to reduce the risk of diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease and Bird Flu entering the UK and putting people, animals and agriculture at risk.

Travel expert and journalist, Simon Calder, has thrown his weight behind the campaign and said it was important the travel industry worked together to spread the message.

Simon Calder said: "It's worrying that many people returning home from holiday are unaware of the EU rules on bringing food into the UK from countries outside the EU, and the reasons behind them. I'd like to see the UK travel industry working together to ensure travellers are aware of the rules about importing food. It would be good, for instance, if you got a reminder when you first book your ticket to some distant horizon.

"There's quite enough stress in travel already without adding to your problems by bringing back something illegal which will earn you the attention of Border Force Officers and possible prosecution. One minute spent checking on www.direct.gov.uk/dontbringmeback can ensure you don’t inadvertently break the law and can save hours of hassle on arrival back in the UK."

Around 85 tonnes of illegal animal products was seized from travellers last year. Food products seized include meat and dairy products, fish including shellfish, and honey.

Key advice to travellers is as follows:

• When travelling outside the EU, remember there are strict rules about bringing foods back into the UK
• All meat and dairy products are banned and restrictions apply to certain other foodstuffs such as fish, shellfish, honey and certain fruits and vegetables
• Before travelling, use the ‘Can I bring it back?’ food-checker to see examples of local products which can and cannot be brought back from popular destinations outside the EU: www.direct.gov.uk/dontbringmeback.