2001 UK foot-and-mouth outbreak - 25 years on: 'It was a year that changed farming'

The 25th anniversary of the UK foot-and-mouth outbreak is an important moment to reflect on the lessons learnt and the ongoing significance of maintaining high standards to protect food safety and the farming industry

Chris Brayford
clock • 2 min read
Red Tractor chair Alistair Mackintosh said: "To prevent another outbreak, we must ensure our borders are properly controlled, and that imported products meet at least the same standards that British farmers adhere to."
Image:

Red Tractor chair Alistair Mackintosh said: "To prevent another outbreak, we must ensure our borders are properly controlled, and that imported products meet at least the same standards that British farmers adhere to."

The 2001 foot-and-mouth outbreak is a year which brought farming to a standstill. Restrictions, food safety concerns and the mass culling of livestock reshaped the agricultural sector and serves as...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

 

More on Livestock

Change of system brings multiple benefits to Cumbrian farm

Change of system brings multiple benefits to Cumbrian farm

Looking to make the most of his land and buildings in a way that suited him, Ernie Harker is enjoying the benefits of an integrated calf scheme

Farmers Guardian
clock 29 June 2026 • 6 min read
Developing a resilient system focused on soil health is the aim for Scottish coastal farm

Developing a resilient system focused on soil health is the aim for Scottish coastal farm

Philip Close and his daughter Heather are still on a learning curve as they fine-tune their minimum-input suckler herd in Ayrshire, where priority is given to soil function and extended rest periods for the grazing

Wendy Short
clock 26 June 2026 • 8 min read
Huge opportunity as Scottish public demand local red meat

Huge opportunity as Scottish public demand local red meat

Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) have highlighted the opportunities in the industry with demand for Scottish produce

clock 26 June 2026 • 3 min read