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US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has reported a surge in egg seizures, as rising costs drive some travelers to attempt sneaking in eggs despite strict import bans. The San Diego Field Office said Thursday, Feb. 27, that egg interceptions have increased 158 percent since the start of the 2024 fiscal year.
The main culprit behind soaring egg prices? A devastating avian flu outbreak that has affected 166 million birds in the US since 2022, according to the US Agriculture Department.
Further east, CBP officers in El Paso, Texas, have also been cracking down.
In addition to drug seizures, officers have issued 16 civil penalties totaling nearly $4,000 to travelers caught trying to bring in raw eggs. Since January, more than 90 people have attempted to import raw eggs from Mexico, CBP said.
The importation of raw or fresh eggs is strictly prohibited due to concerns about Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and Virulent Newcastle Disease (ND), CBP officials warned. Travelers who fail to declare agricultural products risk fines and penalties.
“CBP officers remain steadfast in their efforts to execute their primary homeland security mission,” said CBP El Paso Director of Field Operations Hector Mancha.
Travelers are urged to declare all agricultural products to CBP officers to avoid potential penalties.
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