Smuggled Meat Poses Growing Biosecurity Risk
BMPA Warns of Rising Illegal Meat Trade
The UK meat industry is facing a growing biosecurity threat from the illegal importation of meat products. This follows a sharp rise in seizures at ports and warnings from industry bodies.
According to an update from British Meat Processors Association (BMPA), a recent BBC Radio 4 documentary highlighted the scale of the problem. Dover Port Authority seized 20 tonnes of illegal meat in September 2025, compared with just 1.3 tonnes in September 2022.
Much of the seized meat is reported to originate from Romania, where African swine fever (ASF) remains widespread. While ASF poses no risk to human health, it is highly contagious among pigs. It would have severe consequences for the UK livestock sector if introduced.
The BMPA said the situation should act as a wake-up call for policymakers and called for stronger controls. They also called for better resourcing at ports and greater coordination between enforcement agencies. Processors argue that legitimate businesses operating under strict UK and EU-derived standards are being undercut by illegal operators. These operators bypass both biosecurity and welfare rules.
The warning comes amid heightened sensitivity around animal health, following recent bluetongue detections. There is ongoing concern over global disease spread linked to trade and travel.
Source: British Meat Processors Association| 28 January 2026
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