food & wine

"what food can one bring into US from italy?" Easier question might be "What can't you bring into the US from Europe?" That would be any type of meat or fish (even highly preserved meats) and most dairy products. I'm not sure about fresh produce.

Go to the CBP.gov. The site (US borders and customs) states what food cannot be brought into the US. Wine can be in checked baggage. You'd have to research whether there is a limit to the number of bottles. Generally, you can have it shipped, but some states have banned shipping of wine to private persons; only liquor or wine stores can receive. (I live in such a state.)

Alcoholic beverages (including wine) is limited to one liter per person over 21, duty-free. You may have to pay duty on it if you bring in more.

Though you may have to pay a duty on more than one bottle of wine, it is unlikely if it's just a few bottles. It's more hassle for just a few dollars than is worth it to the customs agent. Just be sure to declare it since failure to declare can result in confiscation. As previously noted, check with your own state on their restrictions on shipping wine and bringing wine in yourself.

Technically it does depend on the State you live in (are bringing the wine to). For a long time California wouldnt let us bring in more than the 1 liter per person so as to protect their wine industry. (Actually to spite those states which wouldnt accept shipments of CA wines). Once at Kennedy the customs agent told me he is reuired to apply California rules if that was my destination

Fran - A couple of years ago I brought 24 bottles of wine back from France. The duty was a big $3.50. I had one bottle break and it made a mess. I made a mistake by not re-packing the wine better. I was assured that the box it was packed in was enough but it wasn't. The customs guy was very nice and helped me clean up the mess. I have heard that they don't always charge. You can bring all you want, but just remember to declare it. I would put it in a suitcase or whatever and use bubble wrap to secure it. Shipping is very expensive. Depending on your airline and your travel staus you would have to pay the extra baggage cost, which would still be cheaper than shipping. You also need to be sure your allowed to ship wine to your particular state. I plan to bring wine home again when I find some I can't buy in the states. We really enjoyed it, and I still have some that I will drink in the next couple of years.
Good Luck - Bill

I live in one of "those" states as well but the rule allows you to ship wine to yourself, as is YOU are the shipper, and YOU are the receiver. The return address cannot be the winery or store from which it was purchased.

Also check the state laws of the state where you'll land on your return. We landed in Phoenix once and they only allowed one liter per person, regardless of the US allowance.

I've also brought more than one bottle of wine back and never been charged duty. I usually pack it inside my suit case with all my clothes wrapped around it and straps to hold it down. Never had one break. It's only about 30 cents per bottle of wine for duty. I'm strongly considering bringing a case home next time. I always seem to run out too quickly!
The only food I bring is candy or prepackaged stuff because it seems to be the only thing allowed that I want to bring back.