Title: “Rising Concerns over Contraband Eggs in Border Smuggling Activities”
As the impact of the bird flu on the U.S. egg supply persists, recent data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection reveal a concerning trend in the smuggling of egg products across U.S. borders compared to the seizure of potent synthetic opioid fentanyl in fiscal year 2025. Statistics show a notable increase in the number of egg products intercepted at the border, surpassing the seizures of fentanyl.
In the current fiscal year, there have been 413 recorded drug seizure incidents involving fentanyl, with a decrease in fentanyl seizures noted in December, January, and February compared to the previous year. Conversely, there have been 5,572 interceptions of egg products so far this fiscal year, marking a significant rise from the previous year’s total interceptions of nearly 16,000.
Notably, the San Diego field office of the agency reported a substantial 158% surge in egg interceptions since fiscal year 2024. This surge in interceptions coincides with the ongoing outbreak of avian flu in the U.S., which has severely impacted the poultry industry, leading to egg price spikes and shortages in some markets.
CBP emphasizes that most intercepted egg products were due to travelers being unaware of the restrictions on bringing such items across the border. The agency reminds travelers that fresh eggs, raw chicken, or live birds from Mexico are prohibited from entering the U.S. Officials caution that despite the potential cost benefits, bringing in these products poses health risks and exacerbates existing issues.
The outbreak of avian influenza, highlighted as the worst on record, underscores the importance of responsible behavior in preventing disease transmission. Items such as contaminated bird cages or used egg cartons can facilitate the spread of diseases like Virulent Newcastle disease, a fatal respiratory virus affecting birds.
Travelers are advised to adhere to USDA regulations, which prohibit most egg and egg products from countries impacted by poultry diseases like bird flu and Newcastle disease. Exceptions include commercially packaged, labeled products, cooked shelf-stable food items, and inspected cooked eggs or egg products. Proper documentation verifying the product’s origin is required for fresh or preserved eggs from disease-free countries to enter the U.S.
Information about traveling with egg products can be found here. Sneak peek: The mysterious death of Susann Sills. Details on Trump’s conversation with Vladimir Putin. Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the deadliest tornado in U.S. history.
