No one wants to start or end their vacation with an unexpected expense, especially hefty fines for bringing prohibited food items.
Various countries, including the United States, impose strict regulations to prevent the entry of pests and diseases.
⛔️ In 2018, a traveler was fined $500 for carrying an undeclared apple into the US.
Incidents like this highlight the importance of understanding and complying with these regulations to avoid fines or delays at customs.
So, what are some of the foods you can’t bring back to the US? Let’s get started.
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The Importance of Declaring Food Items
Travelers entering the US must accurately complete the Customs Declaration Form, specifically section 11, which asks if you bring any agricultural products or visit farms.
This declaration is crucial because it allows US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) specialists to inspect these items for pests and diseases.
If any items are found to be contaminated, they will be destroyed. Failure to declare these items can result in fines and penalties of up to $10,000.
Commonly Prohibited Foods
Generally, any foods that could carry infectious diseases are prohibited.
The Department of Agriculture emphasizes that major pest or disease outbreaks can disrupt ecosystems, lead to higher grocery bills, cause food shortages, and result in losses for farmers.
Items purchased in Hawaii and other US territories, such as Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Guam, are also subject to these strict rules.
Fresh and Frozen Fruits and Vegetables
Most fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, including apples, oranges, and berries, cannot be brought into the US due to the risk of pests and diseases.
Dried Fruits and Vegetables
Dried fruits and vegetables, such as raisins and dried beans, are also generally prohibited unless they have been processed in a way that eliminates any risk of pests or diseases.
Meat and Meat Products
Meat and meat products from certain countries are not allowed. This includes poultry, cattle, swine, sheep, and goat meat or meat products from countries with serious livestock diseases.
Whole Coffee Berries and Spices
Whole coffee berries and certain spices, such as those made from citrus leaves and seeds, are also restricted. This is to prevent the spread of pests that could harm US agriculture.
Dairy Products and Eggs
Milk and dairy items from countries with foot-and-mouth disease and eggs and egg products from certain countries are not allowed to be brought into the US.
Exceptions and Special Cases
While many foods are prohibited, there are some exceptions and special cases where certain items are allowed under specific conditions.
Exceptions from Mexico
Most fruits and vegetables from Mexico are allowed, but some require permits. For instance, avocados must be peeled and halved, with the seed removed and stored properly.
Meat, poultry, egg, and dairy products are generally allowed, except pork unless thoroughly cooked.
Exceptions from Canada
Most meat, poultry, egg, and dairy products from Canada are allowed for personal use.
However, certain fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, European blackberries, and Ontario-grown cherries, are prohibited.
Foods You Can Bring into the United States
It is recommended that receipts and the original packaging of agricultural products be kept to prove their origin to avoid issues at customs.
Even permitted foods are only for personal use, and bringing large quantities may subject you to extra screening.
Commercially Canned and Packaged Foods
Commercially canned fruits and vegetables are generally allowed. This includes items like canned peaches and canned beans.
Dried Beans, Nuts, and Spices
Certain dried items such as beans, dates, figs, nuts (except chestnuts or acorns), okra, peas, raisins, and Szechwan peppercorns are allowed. Most dried spices are also permitted.
Shelf-Stable Meat and Poultry
Only commercially packaged, labeled, cooked, shelf-stable meat and poultry are allowed. This includes items like canned chicken and beef jerky.
Seafood
The US allows the import of most seafood, both fresh and processed, including canned tuna and smoked salmon.
Coffee and Tea
Roasted and unroasted coffee beans and teas, herbal teas, and infusions that are commercially packaged are permitted.
Dairy Products
Solid cheeses that don’t contain meat, liquid milk, and powdered milk products for infants, and commercially packaged, shelf-stable milk and dairy items in unopened packages are allowed.
Baked Goods and Confectionery
Bread, cookies, crackers, cakes, granola bars, cereal, and other baked and processed products are permitted. Candy and chocolate are also allowed.
Other Permitted Items
Additional items that can be brought into the US include:
Honey
Butter, butter oil, olive oil, and other vegetable oils
Eggshells with egg white and yolk removed, if decorated
Moon cakes without meat, egg, or egg yolk unless thoroughly cooked
Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, Marmite, Vegemite, and sauces without meat products
Commercially packaged juices
Flour
Mushrooms that are fresh, dried, and clean
Aloe (above-ground parts)
Dry coconuts without husks
Peeled garlic cloves
Ginger with clean roots
Best Practices for Traveling with Food
When traveling with food, it’s best to be prepared and informed. Here are some tips to help ensure a smooth process at customs:
Declare Everything: Always declare all food items on your Customs Declaration Form. Even if you’re unsure whether an item is allowed, it’s better to declare it and let the customs officers determine.
Keep Documentation: Keep receipts and original packaging for any food items you bring back. This helps prove the origin of the items and may facilitate the inspection process.
Know the Rules: Familiarize yourself with the specific regulations of the US and any countries you travel to or from. Regulations can vary significantly between countries, so knowing what’s allowed and what’s not is important.
Plan Ahead: If you plan to bring food items back, research to ensure you comply with all regulations. This can save you time and avoid potential fines.
Conclusion
Understanding the regulations surrounding food importation into the US is crucial for avoiding fines and delays at customs.
By declaring all food items, keeping documentation, and familiarizing yourself with the rules, you can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
Remember, these regulations aim to protect the US agriculture and ecosystem from potential threats, and compliance helps maintain the balance and safety of the environment.