The UK has imposed restrictions from 7 February 2025 on importing Animal By-Products (ABPs) from Germany, following the first confirmed case of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak on 10 January 2025. 

These restrictions affect various Animal products including ABPs used in clinical trials and research, including Fetal Bovine Serum (FBS), gelatine, collagen, animal blood, and blood products or other germinal products. 

Key Restrictions 

Imports of untreated ABPs from FMD-susceptible animals are prohibited. ABPs that have undergone the appropriate treatments, such as heat or chemical processes to mitigate the risk of FMD, may be imported in accordance with The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) guidelines. Consignments of ABPs intended for research and clinical trials, particularly those derived from FMD-susceptible animals, are subject to strict checks at Border Control Posts (BCPs). 

Implications for Clinical Trials 

• Clinical trial materials containing ABPs from Germany must be treated to mitigate FMD risk before importation 
• Untreated ABPs from DE cannot be imported into UK for Clinical Trials 

Advice for Importers 

• Verify the origin and treatment status of all ABPs intended for import. 
• For untreated ABPs from Germany, seek guidance on treatment options or apply for an exemption through DEFRA. 
• Ensure all necessary documentation, including health certificates or FMD-free declarations, is obtained before attempting importation. 
• Consider sourcing ABPs from alternative EU member states or EFTA countries not affected by these restrictions. 

For further information or specific queries regarding the importation of ABPs for clinical trials, contact DEFRA directly or consult with a customs broker specializing in the importation of biological materials. 

Marken stays committed to supporting clients in navigating the regulatory and trade landscape of the global clinical supply chain. For more information or if you have any questions, contact our team at TradeCompliance@marken.com.

Sources: 

http://apha.defra.gov.uk/documents/bip/ovs-notes/2025-04.pdf 

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/imports-and-exports-of-animals-and-animal-products-topical-issues#foot-and-mouth-disease-fmd-in-germany

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/67a4c9fa8259d52732f6ade3/Declaration_of_special_measur es_-_importation_of_certain_products_from_Germany__England_.pdf 

https://www.doverporthealth.gov.uk/news/foot-and-mouth-disease-information-for-importers?

http://apha.defra.gov.uk/documents/bip/ovs-notes/2025-09.pdf 

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/67a4c9fa8259d52732f6ade3/Declaration_of_special_measur es_-_importation_of_certain_products_from_Germany__England_.pdf 

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-introduces-import-ban-of-cattle-pigs-and-sheep-from-germany-to-protect-farmers-after-foot-and-mouth-case

Contacts for BCPs 

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/animals-animal-products-and-hrfnao-imports-authorised-border-control-posts-in-the-uk/live-animals-animal-products-and-food-and-feed-of-non-animal-origin-border-control-posts-at-airports-in-the-uk