With Easter festivities approaching, travelers are reminded by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) about the restrictions on cascarones, the popular confetti-filled eggshells. Travelers are limited to 12 cascarones each, which must be clean, dry, and devoid of any egg residue, although decoration is permitted.
Cascarones are regulated by CBP due to concerns about the spread of virulent Newcastle disease and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) through contaminated eggshells. Both are viral diseases affecting various bird species with high mortality rates. "Virulent Newcastle disease is a highly contagious, fatal viral disease that affects a substantial number of bird species," stated CBP. Official measures disrupt poultry trade from affected regions to control these diseases.
CBP also prohibits fresh eggs, raw chicken, and live birds or poultry from Mexico, citing the presence of these diseases there. Non-compliance can result in traveler delays and fines between $300 and $1,000.
At all major entry points, CBP agriculture specialists work to prevent harmful pests and diseases from entering the U.S. "CBP would like to remind the public," they said, of ongoing measures to protect agriculture.
For up-to-date information on bringing agricultural items into the United States, CBP directs travelers to the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
Travelers can follow updates from the CBP’s Laredo Field Office on X and Instagram, and the CBP South Texas account for further news and information.
"CUSTOMS and Border Protection (CBP) is America's frontline," CBP underscores its role in enforcing laws and regulations to protect the country's borders and ensure economic prosperity by facilitating lawful travel and trade.
