U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Pharr International Bridge cargo facility have seized 34,286 pounds of sweetened condensed milk in an alleged attempt to fraudulently enter the United States. The incident occurred on October 28 when officers encountered a tractor-trailer arriving from Mexico with a shipment labeled as "canned cream or milk substitute."

Port Director Carlos Rodriguez of the Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry stated, “CBP is committed to the health and safety of the American agriculture resources, which is why our agriculture specialists scrutinize all documents for consumable goods entering the United States.”

The shipment was flagged for further inspection because it required additional documentation to meet import regulations. Upon review by agriculture specialists, doubts arose regarding the authenticity of the accompanying Zoosanitary Certificate. This certificate, issued by the Mexican Government, is necessary for products and byproducts of animal origin entering the U.S., certifying them free from foot and mouth disease.

With assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), CBP officials contacted Mexican authorities who confirmed that they had not issued the certificate in question, identifying it as fraudulent.

On November 26, CBP decided to seize both the tractor-trailer and its contents. A total of 18 pallets containing 864 containers of sweetened condensed milk were confiscated pending destruction. USDA Investigative and Enforcement Services has launched an investigation into this matter.

CBP emphasizes its role as America's frontline law enforcement organization dedicated to protecting national security through rigorous inspections and collaboration with international partners.