Originally Posted by
chollie
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.
Yes you are correct about how CBP defines what is permitted or not. One way out of that is to simplify the list - e.g. all Candy and Chocolate allowed apart from any that have a real fruit core and Kinder Eggs and not worry about fresh vs dried etc.
Disallow or allow all instant noodle packets - whichever is deemed safer to entry into the US.
I'm sure if there is a will this list could be collapsed into a form that allows for faster passage of travelers especially GE members instead of focusing on minute details.
But like you I don't believe this will happen.