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U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is reminding travelers that certain agricultural products, including raw eggs from Mexico, are prohibited from entering the United States. Failure to declare these items may result in fines.
This advisory follows a significant increase in the number of prohibited food items brought by travelers from Mexico. The CBP San Diego Field Office has reported a 158% increase in egg interceptions since fiscal year 2024. Officials emphasize that heightened awareness is necessary to protect U.S. agriculture from potential disease risks.
“It is critical that we keep our traveling public informed to safeguard our agricultural industry while continuing to facilitate legitimate trade and travel,” said Sidney Aki, CBP Director of Field Operations in San Diego.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, an ongoing outbreak of avian influenza has affected millions of domestic birds in the United States, contributing to increased egg and poultry prices. This outbreak, the worst on record, highlights the risks associated with transporting birds and avian products, which can contribute to the spread of disease. Items such as soiled bird cages and used egg cartons may carry diseases, including Virulent Newcastle disease.
Travelers must declare all agricultural products to CBP officers and agriculture specialists. Failure to do so may result in fines of up to $10,000. Fresh eggs, raw chicken, and live birds from Mexico are strictly prohibited. For more information on allowable products, travelers can visit the “Bringing Agricultural Products Into the United States” section of the CBP website.
Travelers may bring permissible food items from Mexico through passenger ports of entry if they are for personal use only. Food items intended for resale or distribution must be imported through a cargo facility in compliance with U.S. regulations.
