A traveller returning from Bali has been slapped with a hefty fine after trying to bring undeclared McDonalds products into Australia.
The contraband Maccas run included two egg and beef sausage McMuffins, hot cakes and a ham croissant.
It was detected at Darwin Airport by the facilities new detector dog Zinta last week, with the returning passenger issued a $2664 infringement notice.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said Australia is committed to staying “FMD-free”.
“This will be the most expensive Maccas meal this passenger ever has, this fine is twice the cost of an airfare to Bali,” he said.
“But I have no sympathy for people who choose to disobey Australia’s strict biosecurity measures, and recent detections show you will be caught.
“Australia is FMD-free, and we want it to stay that way.
“It’s excellent to see (Zinta) is already contributing to keeping the country safe.”
FMD is a highly-contagious virus that affects hooved animals.
An outbreak is currently spreading through Indonesia and Bali. If the virus reaches Australian shores it could cost as much as $80 billion over 10 years.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) says FMD can be carried in meat and dairy products, as well as in soil, bones, untreated hides, vehicles and equipment.
It can also survive in frozen, chilled and freeze-dried foods including meat and dairy products.
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