Retailers have been warned to expect availability issues with meat products imported from Germany. The warnings come as the country grapples with its first foot-and-mouth crisis in decades. 

Delicatessen Fine Eating (DFE) products, which are supplied to several convenience chains and include pre-packed cooked hams and salamis, are experiencing delays, it has been confirmed.  

In a message to Nisa retailers seen by Better Retailing, DFE confirmed disruption in the supply chain. This is due to a large part of its product range coming from Germany. The message said availability issues would continue until the end of the week. However, it also added that the situation was now improving with stock being released for export. 

How is the UK responding to the foot-and-mouth outbreak in Germany?

Germany was plunged into its first foot-and-mouth crisis in 40 years on 10 January when a herd of buffalo on the outskirts of Berlin tested positive for the disease. The country’s agriculture ministry said quarantine zones around the case were in force. However, there were no indications the disease had spread. 

The UK imposed an import ban on EU livestock on 15 January alongside meat, milk and dairy products and is working with German authorities to monitor the situation. 

Foot-and-mouth disease is highly infectious viral disease that affects cattle, sheep, pigs and other cloven-hoofed animals. However, it poses no danger to humans. 

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