Regulations prohibiting certain foods from entering the United States have changed to include cooked poultry and eggs from Mexico because of a contagious bird disease.
Those attempting to enter the U.S. with these cooked products, in a lunch or for delivery, will be refused entry or the poultry and eggs will be seized. Uncooked poultry and eggs were already on the prohibited list at the Ports of Entry.
The United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service implemented these new requirements this week on those traveling from countries where Exotic Newcastle Disease exists, including Mexico.
The requirements provide for passage of poultry that is accompanied by a government certification proving the meat was satisfactorily cooked or a USDA Veterinary Services import permit. Cooked eggs can also enter the U.S. if they are accompanied by a Veterinary Services import permit, unless the eggs are from Sinaloa or Sonora.
Exposure to birds infected by Exotic Newcastle Disease can cause mild influenza-like symptoms.
