Can you bring chili powder into the US?
I have received a B1/B2 visa and will travel from Denmark to the US.
- Can I bring chili powder and tea into the US?
- Can I bring chili seeds into the US?
- Should I store the powder/tea/seeds in my checked or carry-on bag?
- Will I have to declare this somewhere?
Also, I searched for what foods you can bring into the US, but found the guidelines difficult to understand and rather vague.
- Can I learn somewhere what other foods in general I can bring into the US?
Best Answer
You shouldn't have a problem with bringing chili powder or tea with you, in either your carry on or checked bagggage. However, if the chili seeds are for propagation, consult the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Fruits and Vegetables Import Requirements (FAVIR) database at www.aphis.usda.gov.
You would list them on the declaration card you are given on board the aircraft prior to arrival.
All travelers entering the United States are REQUIRED to DECLARE meats, fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, soil, animals, as well as plant and animal products (including soup or soup products) they may be carrying. The declaration must cover all items carried in checked baggage, carry-on luggage, or in a vehicle.
Importing coffee, tea or spices for personal use
What are the requirements for importing coffee, tea or spices for personal use?
There are no restrictions on the importation of coffee, tea or spices for personal use, although they may be subject to Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) inspections if a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officer suspects contamination or insect infestation of the product.
Please note that tea or spices containing fruit or vegetable leaves or seeds, including citrus leaves or seeds, are typically prohibited.
For convenience, here is the link to the General List of Approved Food and Plant Products.
Pictures about "Can you bring chili powder into the US?"
Can we carry spices to USA?
Spices and Condiments: Most dried spices are allowed to be carried along. Travellers can bring basic Indian spices such as garam masala or sambar powder in unopened and commercially labeled packages. If carrying homemade spices, it is advisable to pack them in airtight containers.Can we carry spices in international flight?
More from Travel News Air India told its passengers through a directive that "carriage of any powder or powder-like substance in hand or carry-on baggage which is 350 ml or larger is prohibited." Substances like spices, sugar, flour, ground coffee and cosmetics will not be let in.Can you bring dried chiles on a plane?
Solid food items (not liquids or gels) can be transported in either your carry-on or checked bags.Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Mareefe, Marta Branco, Mareefe, Karolina Grabowska