U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Agriculture Specialists at the Paso Del Norte international crossing in El Paso, Texas, intercepted a significant amount of prohibited pork products on May 8. The seizure included 25 large rolls of pork bologna, two packages of pork ham, and 16 rolls of pork chorizo.
The incident occurred just before 8 p.m. when a 61-year-old man driving a 2024 Mazda CX-50 arrived for inspection through the vehicle lanes at the port. After declaring no fruits, vegetables, or meat products, a CBP officer noticed several rolls of meat under the floor mats during the primary inspection.
The driver was then directed to a secondary agriculture inspection where CBP Agriculture Specialists discovered a total of 275 pounds of bologna, 17.6 pounds of pork ham, and seven pounds of pork chorizo concealed in different parts of the vehicle. According to U.S. Department of Agriculture regulations, these items were seized and destroyed by CBP.
This is not the first time this individual has attempted to smuggle pork bologna into the U.S. from Mexico via the El Paso port. He previously faced a $1,000 penalty after being caught with 30 rolls of bologna in his vehicle.
“It is important that members of the traveling public clearly understand that pork products have the potential to introduce foreign animal diseases to the U.S. The impact to the U.S. economy and to our agriculture industry could be devastating,” said CBP El Paso Director Field Operations Hector A. Mancha. “Travelers should not try to cross pork products from Mexico to the U.S. If they are unsure, it is best for travelers to declare any items acquired abroad to help CBP stop the introduction of potentially harmful products.”
The case has been referred to USDA Investigative and Enforcement Services for enforcement related to animal and plant issues violations. Additionally, CBP is considering civil penalties that may be applicable.
The USDA and Department of Homeland Security collaborate in protecting American agriculture from pests and diseases at ports nationwide. Any undeclared prohibited agricultural items will be confiscated and could lead to civil penalties for failure to declare them.
CBP is recognized as America's frontline law enforcement organization—the largest in size globally—and works diligently across various domains including ground, air, and sea operations. The agency ensures safe travel and trade while enhancing national security through innovation and collaboration.
