Originally Posted by
blue_can
It's true that the US entry system for US Citizens is fairly intrusive compared to some other countries. I also hold a UK passport and when I enter the UK I can use the eGates or whatever they call them and can make it out of the airport without filling out any forms or ever talking to a UK border Agency officer - and this is without being part of any TT program. Contrast that to say entry to the US at YVR where after you complete GE you still have to see an officer and show your passport and declaration. I think the TT should count for something and you should be able to exit without seeing an officer.
I agree that a good way to deal with the food question is to have a more detailed list. If you answer yes to a generic food question then you only declare if what you are carrying if it is on the more detailed list Since the booths are electronic the list can easily be updated at short notice unlike paper forms. Eliminate "food" in the list.
Such a scheme should help cut down unnecessary declarations.
CBP wants the granularity, to an extent that it's almost impossible to construct a workable checklist.
As I noted earlier, one example is candy or chocolate. Yes, they are 'generally' allowed - but not if they are old-style Kindereggs or chocolate-dipped strawberries. Chocolate-dipped apricots may or may not pass, depending on the agent, because unlike the strawberries, the apricot is dried.
Instant noodle packets are 'generally' allowed - but not if the seasoning packet is 'beef'.
Seeds are prohibited but it is not clear if a poppyseed or sesame seed bagel will be permitted.
When you drill down to this level, I think it's virtually impossible to come up with a reasonable check list. I'd sure like to see the US handle customs the way other countries do, but I don't see any likelihood of it happening.