The UK has implemented strict new regulations to prevent the import of certain sheep and goat products, such as meat, cheese, and milk, in response to the threat of peste des petits ruminants (PPR) outbreaks.

Effective immediately in England, with Wales following suit Thursday, August 22, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has stated that Scotland will soon adopt similar measures.

These controls tighten the rules on importing sheep and goat meat and dairy products from the European Union (EU), European Free Trade Association (EFTA) states, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands. Specifically, the import of unpackaged sheep and goat meat, as well as milk and related products, from these regions is now prohibited. Additionally, even commercially produced and packaged milk and milk products from Greece and Romania are banned.

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Although PPR poses no risk to human health, it is a highly contagious disease that can severely affect sheep and goats. Recent outbreaks in mainland Europe have already led to restrictions on the commercial import of certain products to prevent the disease from reaching the UK.

These new measures will remain in place until PPR is no longer a threat to the UK, according to Defra.

UK deputy chief veterinary officer, Ele Brown, emphasised the seriousness of the situation: “There have been recent outbreaks of peste des petits ruminants in Europe. This poses no risks to humans but causes severe illness in sheep and goats. An outbreak in the UK would lead to animal suffering and be very damaging for our farming and livestock industry.

“Everyone can do their bit to help stop animal diseases spreading to this country by simply not bringing unpackaged meat, cheese and milk on to our shores.”

To help prevent the spread of PPR to the UK, Defra advises the following steps:

• Farmers, the public, and food industry members should maintain high biosecurity standards, including never feeding catering waste, kitchen scraps, or meat and milk products to sheep and goats, as this is illegal and can spread the disease.

• Avoid bringing any sheep or goat products back to the UK if you are visiting countries affected by PPR.

• When visiting EU or EFTA countries not affected by PPR, ensure that any sheep or goat products brought back are commercially produced and packaged to EU standards.

• Dispose of any leftover food or waste in secure bins that cannot be accessed by sheep, goats, or wildlife.