In August 2025 the Government introduced a ban on imports of raw cows’ milk products from France and Italy – following an outbreak of lumpy skin disease in herds across the two countries.

Pecorinos, bries and camemberts and many others have been in short supply as shipments were stopped at ports in the wake of this major animal-health scare on the Continent. Other produce, such as pate, from France and Italy that was travelling on the same pallets as banned items was also sent back.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) suspended imports of certain bovine commodities when outbreaks of lumpy skin disease were confirmed. Although exemptions were brought in, most unpasteurised cheeses made after 23 May in France or Italy were not allowed into the UK.

There are concerns for producers and maturers, who depend on cheeses crossing borders, as many are small farmhouse producers already in a precarious situation. Confusion at customs over the date element of the ban has lead to more produce being rejected than necessary.

One outlet said their delivery got held, sent back to Italy and taken apart. They took cheeses off then put some back on when the dispensation came through. In all the confusion we ended up with frozen octopus sausage as well. 

Although it does not affect people, the illness can be severe for cattle and some other species.

As of 14 July, Defra said import of milk and dairy products made in France or Italy through a lower heat treatment than pasteurisation, which is classified as 72°C for 15 seconds, was not allowed unless they had undertaken an ageing or maturation process that started before 23rd May. And that requires certification.

A Defra spokesperson said:

“This Government will do whatever it takes to protect British farmers and their herds from disease. We have strengthened protections by temporarily suspending imports of a small amount of products from Italy and France, following outbreaks of lumpy skin disease across Europe.”

Many cheeses we are used to eating may not be available but where has it been publicised? Save that now we have a reason for not seeing Michel for much of the summer.

One importer said that Defra guidance and communication had been “poor” and called for more explanation of when and how the ban might end. He added: “In order to get any cheese, the level of paperwork required on both sides of the water has increased and every vehicle movement is followed with a high degree of trepidation.”