Brits warned they could be fined over simple airport meal deal sandwich

The airport meal deal is a ritual millions of us go through every year as we jet off to our holiday destinations of choice.

But it is one that could land you with a fine if you break a common rule.

Many of us have been in this situation countless times - bags have been dropped off, you're through security and picked up a bargain bottle of something rather nice from duty free.

Then it's time to scran, especially if you're done the 3am get up for those first flights departing just after six.

But whether you get a meal deal from WHSmith or a butty from Costa, one group of travel experts have warned Brits flying to the EU that they could be fine for bringing their food across borders.

According to European Waterways, a travel expert group, it all comes down to Brexit's impact on meat or dairy products.

EU rules about meat and dairy could scupper your holiday plans (Getty Stock Images)

Maryanne Sparkes, from the group, said: “If you travel to the EU from a non-EU country, you are not allowed to bring any meat or dairy products with you - this includes those you would find in a meal deal sandwich.

“It is safe to consume these sandwiches in the airport and on the plane, but they must be disposed of either before you get off the flight or as soon as you enter the terminal at the other side.

"To avoid fines or potential criminal prosecution, ensure that any meat or dairy products are not carried into the EU.

"You can however bring a limited quantity of fruit and vegetables as well as eggs, egg products and honey.

"Restricted quantities of fish or fish products are as long as they weigh no more than 20 kilograms or the equivalent weight of one whole fish, whichever is heavier."

Sandwiches most at risk of a fine (containing meat or dairy products)

• Chicken & Bacon
• Ham & Cheese
• BLT (Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato)
• Turkey & Swiss
• Egg & Bacon
• Chicken Caesar
• Chicken & Stuffing
• Ham Salad with Cheese
• Beef & Horseradish
• Tuna Mayo & Sweetcorn

Airport scran (Getty Stock Images)

Sandwiches least at risk of fine (excluding meat and dairy products)

• Vegan Hummus & Roasted Vegetable
• Falafel & Spinach
• Spicy Bean & Avocado
• Vegan Sweet Potato & Red Pepper
• Veggie Club (without cheese or mayo)
• Avocado & Tomato (without cheese or mayo)
• Chickpea & Mango Chutney
• Beetroot & Falafel
• Mediterranean Veggie (without cheese or mayo)
• Curried Chickpea & Mango

Don't risk it and eat it before you land (Getty Stock Images)

A statement from the European Union website reads: "If you travel to the EU from a non-EU country, you are not allowed to bring any meat or dairy products with you.

"You can however bring a limited quantity of fruit and vegetables as well as eggs, egg products and honey.

"Restricted quantities of fish or fish products are also allowed."