Illegal meat on most UK high streets, official says

Illegal meat is reportedly being sold on most UK high streets, according to an official statement. This alarming revelation comes after a surge in illegal meat imports, with over 65 tonnes of illegal meat products seized at the Port of Dover since September 2022.  The smuggled meat is believed to be sourced from unknown origins, posing serious health risks to consumers.

Criminal gangs are exploiting loopholes in border controls, using vehicles registered in England to avoid detection. The gangs then sell the illegal meat to unsuspecting businesses, including fast-food restaurants, pubs, and manufacturers.

The National Pig Association (NPA) has sounded the alarm, warning that the UK's biosecurity is under threat from these illegal imports. The NPA is calling for tougher measures to prevent illegal meat imports, including better border controls and stricter penalties for those caught smuggling.

The situation is dire, with Border Force seizing 110 tonnes of illegal meat at Dover this year alone. The UK's farming industry is also at risk, with the illegal meat trade threatening the livelihoods of farmers and the economy as a whole.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cglydk3d7wko