Originally Posted by
sam007
Guys - read the rules and don't bring a best CBP website and had a couple of confirmations I need as I'm flying from Mexico to USA soon (BJX-DFW-JFK) and on our long flight with kids and really dislike airport food
1) No amount of fruit, even for personal use is permitted even if it's cut fruit like cut bananas, cut mangoes, etc correct? If you think of any kind of fruit they may just allow because it's considered very low risk, kindly let me know
2) What kind of sandwiches would be allowed? CBP website has the below statement but makes no mention of beef or chicken and should I avoid using lettuce/tomatoes/avocadoes in the sandwiches?
"Pork and pork products are not admissible from Mexico, however at the land border a thoroughly cooked small amount for personal use is allowed"
3) I plan to declare everything and clarify to the airport officer exactly what I'm carrying but traveling from Guanajuato airport so communications could be an issue. Do you think they really care? All our food will be consumed within the first leg and before we land in the US
4) Does immigration & security occur at DFW or JFK?
Thanks
I'm sure someone will provide more details and references, but basically the restrictions apply for when you go through customs, not when you board your inbound flight to the US.
I don't believe there are any US customs officers or US customs rules at BJX that would prevent you from carrying whatever food you want onboard on the first flight, as long as it was consumed before you arrive into DFW (where you will clear immigration/customs).
Do NOT bring any fruits and vegetables through customs at DFW, throw them away after you get off the plane if you have any left, there will be trash cans.
(but note that airline staff/rules may have their own restrictions totally separate from CBP, though it's doubtful they'd restrict food other than if it was primarily liquid that might be limited by security rules)