As the United States continues to face inflation and the price of eggs reaches historic levels, the smuggling of Mexican eggs into the country has become increasingly common.
According to Customs and Border Protection (CBP), there has been a sharp rise in egg seizures at various US-Mexico border crossings. According to Bloomberg, seizures have increased by over 300% when compared to the same period in the previous year. The main reason behind the high prices of eggs and poultry in the United States is the ongoing bird flu outbreak, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Economic Research Service.
This bird flu outbreak has resulted in the loss of over 57 million birds in the United States and is the deadliest on record. According to Spectrum News, the U.S.’s worst avian flu outbreak is leading to expensive egg costs. While wild birds are believed to have initially spread the disease, past outbreaks have been linked to the movement of birds and avian products by humans.
Customs and Border Protection reminds travelers that the importation of certain agricultural items, such as raw eggs and poultry from Mexico, is prohibited and may result in monetary penalties. To avoid fines, travelers are encouraged to declare all agricultural items upon arrival and confirm that they are allowed before bringing them into the country. Raw eggs and poultry from Mexico are specifically prohibited and will be confiscated at the port of entry.
Travelers can check the items and foods that cannot enter the United States on the Customs and Border Protection website. As the price of eggs remains high in the United States, it is important for individuals to understand the restrictions and consequences of smuggling eggs across the border.
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