Failure to Declare Food Products to Customs and Border Guards Can Cost You a Lot of Time
When you travel overseas, it’s a whole song as you answer questions and declare the items you need to go through before re-entering the US. When customs asks you if you have any products to declare, declare all the products you have – just in case.
It all boils down to Question 11, Part A: Are you bringing fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, food, or insects to the United States? Most of the time, I hurriedly say no because I don’t even think about the prepackaged items I found in the store, the snacks I bought at the airport, or the items they hand out on the way home. … But Melanie Lieberman of The Points Guy invites you to mention all food, no matter where you got it. A U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CPB) public relations officer explains:
“When it comes to food and agricultural products, the best advice for travelers is to always state it. While many [items] may be permitted, it is best to declare them to avoid potential fines and penalties if deemed prohibited. “
What are the penalties? We’re talking about fines up to $ 10,000. According to the CBP , refusing to declare something as simple as an apple will at least get you a $ 300 fine the first time around (repeat offenders must pay $ 500 or more). Failure to declare items can also result in the loss of your Global Entry membership .
Of course, CBP agents aren’t as concerned with some foods as they are with others. They’re not really looking for ready-made or processed foods like chips, crackers, candy, and other snacks. This extra bag of salted pretzels you pulled from the flight attendant is safe. Roasted, boiled or chopped nuts, muesli bars, and most cheeses are also acceptable. Even dried fruit will usually do.
They look for raw fruits, vegetables, meats (even dried meats), eggs, seeds, and nuts. And yes, any such items that you picked up at the airport or handed over on the plane count! Just ask the woman fined $ 500 for the apple the airline gave her . If you’re unsure about the food in your bags, it’s best to play it safe. Check yes if you have anything edible in your luggage and be prepared to explain this to the CBP agent. Or you can eat it all or throw it away before you get to customs.
How To Avoid A $ 500 Fine At Customs And Borders | The points guy