Can I bring food which is not recognised as safe through US customs?
On my trip to the US, I'm planning to bring condiments containing pink pepper, typical of French cuisine, as a gift. Something like this:
As I understand, there should be no problem with bringing commercially packaged foods. However, since pink peppercorn lacks GRAS (generally recognized as safe) status in the US, I wonder if there are additional restrictions I could face.
Also, should I declare it or just pack in my luggage and go ahead?
Best Answer
Yes, you can with some kinds of food. I routinely bring in Kinder Surprise eggs which are apparently banned by FDA. As long as you a) declare everything to US Customs, and b) the amount you're bringing is obviously for personal consumption, you are solid. While Customs can in theory confiscate this stuff, in my experience they always showed leeway as long as two conditions above were satisfied.
However if you're bringing meat, raw fruit/veggies or dairy, those might not be allowed - and I've seen those confiscated at secondary control.
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Is it illegal to bring food into the US?
Food Products (Raw and Prepared) As a general rule, condiments, vinegars, oils, packaged spices, honey, coffee and tea are admissible. Because rice can often harbor insects, it is best to avoid bringing it into the United States.Can you bring food over the US border?
Travelers may bring commercially canned fruits and vegetables (not containing any meat products) into the United States. All such products must be declared and presented at entry, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection agriculture specialists will make the final determination as to what products may enter.How Illegal Items Are Found And Destroyed At JFK Airport
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