Traveling with Traditional Puerto Rican Foods: Know the USDA Regulations

As the holiday season approaches, traditional culinary products like cakes and blood sausage become popular among Puerto Rican families living in the continental United States. Many people may consider bringing these delicacies on their flights back home.

If you plan to carry these items in your luggage, be aware that you risk having them confiscated at the airport. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) enforces strict rules against bringing agricultural products, including pork, to prevent harmful pests from entering the country.

The current USDA regulations prohibit the transportation of pork products and raw fruits and vegetables, as well as certain plants, flowers, and even some wooden souvenirs. However, some agricultural products are allowed. You must declare all agricultural items at customs, and failure to do so could lead to delays, lost flights, and the confiscation of your goods.

If you do not declare these items, you may face fines ranging from $100 to $1,000 for each violation.

Additionally, the same restrictions apply if you attempt to send agricultural products like pork and fresh fruits through postal services or package delivery services. Any agricultural shipment must be inspected and certified by USDA officials.

To learn more about what agricultural products you can or cannot bring into the continental U.S. or send through mailing services, visit the USDA portal: USDA Travel Information.