U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued a reminder to travelers that certain agricultural products, including raw eggs from Mexico, are not allowed into the United States. Failure to declare such items may result in fines.
This announcement follows a notable rise in prohibited food items brought by travelers from Mexico. The San Diego Field Office reported a 158% increase in egg interceptions since fiscal year 2024. This surge highlights the importance of raising awareness to protect U.S. agriculture from potential disease threats.
Sidney Aki, CBP Director of Field Operations in San Diego, stated, "It is critical that we keep our traveling public informed to safeguard our agricultural industry while continuing to facilitate legitimate trade and travel."
Statistics from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service indicate that an avian influenza outbreak has affected millions of domestic birds in the U.S., leading to higher egg and poultry prices. This bird flu outbreak is the worst on record and emphasizes how human actions, like transporting birds and avian products, can contribute to disease spread. Items such as soiled bird cages or used egg cartons can transmit diseases like Virulent Newcastle disease.
Travelers must declare all agricultural products to CBP officers and agriculture specialists; failing to do so could result in fines up to $10,000. Bringing fresh eggs, raw chicken, or live birds into the U.S. from Mexico is prohibited. For more information on permissible products, visit the “Bringing Agricultural Products Into the United States” section on the CBP website.
Travelers may bring permissible food items from Mexico through a passenger port of entry if they are for personal use only. Food items intended for commercial purposes must be imported properly at a cargo facility.
For updates and information, follow the Director of CBP’s San Diego Field Office at @DFOSanDiegoCA.
CBP serves as America's frontline: it is the nation's largest law enforcement organization and the world's first unified border management agency. With over 65,000 personnel, CBP protects America on land, air, and sea while facilitating safe travel and trade to ensure economic prosperity. The agency enhances national security through innovation, intelligence, collaboration, and trust.
