MINNEAPOLIS – U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) agents at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport recently seized 83 pounds of meat from a man who had come from South Africa.
When the man arrived at customs, he told agents he wanted to declare beef he had in his luggage. CBP Agriculture Specialists x-rayed the man’s bags and determined the meat was beef biltong, a type of meat similar to beef jerky that is cured and dried in South Africa.
According to CBP, meat that is cured and dried in South Africa is restricted because it is known to carry animal diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease.
The man asked agents not to seize the meat, which he said cost over $2,000, but the meat was taken and destroyed.
“Our nation’s food supply is constantly at risk to diseases not known to occur in the United States,” Minneapolis Area Port Director Augustine Moore said. “This interception highlights the vigilance and dedication that our CBP Agriculture Specialists demonstrate daily. They ensure that the United States is safe from harmful diseases that could affect our food supply.”
CBP said the most common items seized are pork and beef sausages, plants, plant materials, seeds for planting, and fruit. Depending on the time of year, there is an increase in beef and pork.
Travelers are encouraged to visit the CBP Information Center section on the CBP website or call (877) 227-5511 for information on allowed and restricted items.
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