The Customs And Border Protection Laws (CBPL) of the United States of America apply to anyone who is travelling from any other country – for academic, business or leisure purposes. Although a lot of food items that we consume in India have now been made available in Indian grocery stores around the USA, coming from a set-up that is largely dictated by sentimental value being attached to food, it is only natural to feel like you want to carry specific items as a means of surviving the initial few days, as you settle in.
However, while this might be perfectly reasonable, abiding by the laws put in place to ensure the safety of citizens, migrants and tourists at large, it is also important to understand that specific items of food aren’t permissible for a few reasons. Hence, to avoid altercations or disappointment, and most importantly from being penalised, refer to the list below to get a sense of prohibited food items that can be skipped to be added to your luggage, as you depart from India.
Fresh Fruits & Vegetables
As per the official reasons stated on the website of the CBPL, fresh fruits and vegetables are not granted entry into the country, due to the risk of carrying insects or pests which might cause damage to local crops growing within the United States. However, if dried or candied items like mangoes or fruit-based sweets must be carried, a declaration must be given while filing in details on the U.S. Customs form.
Plants & Seeds
Since plants and seed pods also fall under the agricultural product category, carriers of such goods from India are most likely to be inspected by a Customs Agricultural Specialist in order to check for potentially harmful pesticidal residue or diseases. However, unprocessed plant products or endangered species of seeds and plants are permissible but might require import permits and special documents for reference purposes.
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Loose Grains & Grain Products
For similar reasons that fruits and vegetables aren’t permitted within the borders of the United States, loosely packed grains, lentils, rice flour, gram flour and other adjacent agricultural products are advised against being carried. The foreign pests that infest loose grain and grain products are also potentially harmful for livestock and crop production, making it susceptible to be discarded by customs officials.
Meat & Animal By-Products
Fresh, dried, cooked or canned meat and animal by-products such as stock cubes, lard, fat and pre-packaged non-vegetarian snacks from India are prohibited for the risk of spreading bacterial infections or diseases. This also includes seafood and eggs, pre-mixed food packets containing meat-based ingredients and game meats. Carrying such products are also liable for an investigation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
For detailed information about a list of non-permissible and permissible products, refer to the link by clicking here.