Traveller fined $300 for undeclared produce at Detroit Airport

Eggplants, lemongrass, wood chips, and fresh leaves seized at Detroit Airport. (Source: CBP)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection agriculture specialists at the Detroit Airport fined a repeat offender from the Democratic Republic of Congo.

CBP officials say the traveller was fined $300 for attempting to enter the U.S. with undeclared eggplants, lemongrass, wood chips, and fresh leaves.

These items can introduce foreign pests and diseases, according to the CBP website.

All agriculture items must be declared and are subject to inspection by a CBP Agriculture. Specialist at ports of entry to ensure they are free of plant pests and foreign animal diseases. Prohibited or restricted items may include meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, plants, seeds, soil and products made from animal or plant materials.

For generally allowed food items please visit USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.