Has there been a change in the meat rules?

I routinely bring in bunches of canned pate, list it, and there's been an issue. I don't think my belly would stand for the fresh stuff if it hadn't been kept chilled.

It's impossible to know what the exact regulations are. There are lots of overlapping rules, laws, and other regulations....so it's basically up to the discretion of the customs officer. What may be "kosher" to bring in to the US one day may be radically different the next time you travel because priorities have changed. Whenever you purchase foods, always assume there is the possibility it will be confiscated. Maybe it's a coincidence, but I'm always 100% honest when filling out the declaration forms, and answering questions about food products....I've never had problem. If you're trying to pull a fast one on them and they catch you, they're unlikely to be sympathetic;)

Thanks! I would never try to pull a fast one- we were actually held up last time, because we were totally honest! We had a tiny amount of fish roe (not the good stuff), declared it, went through a monstrous inspection with all the kids, and then they gave me a lecture on the max amount allowed of REAL CAVIAR (over 10x's what I had. I would of laughed if I hadn't wanted to cry.)

Ed, is that there has or hasn't been an issue? They were all over my husband when they thought the horseradish was pate, but maybe that was because they thought we were trying to sneak it.

Has NOT been an issue, but it was all canned.

I do not know if ther have been recent changes, but meat has always been an issue partly due to the pathogens issue, but as much due to trade issues.

As a result, only the following can be definitively said about bringing meat in any form:

Just about any fresh or packaged meat will be an issue.

Some processed/canned items are allowable, but as dependent on producer than a category. Firms that produce and import product must meet certain requirements and those same requirements are enforced at customs.

Given the many variables and the latitude given Customs, it is more typical for them to take the stricter interpretation that no meat products are allowed.

Providing evidence or arguing with Customs rarely helps your case, usually hurts.

All that said, I do recall something about canned Pate or similar product being OK (can't find the same reference now), even some cured meat are OK, but only from inspected facilities...leading to the issues above.

My tact would be to buy it,(spend no more than you are willing to lose) bring it back with all your other food irems, declare it, and see what happens.

Steve, is it because it is poultry?

Cate,

The reason some people will say they have brought home meat with no problem (assuming they are declaring them) is the rules say "most countries". A lot depends on where you're coming from and where you're taking the product. There are some countries where it isn't a problem, most of the time, but then a scare (like mad cow) comes up and all imports are stopped.

I was behind someone who had a can of Ravioli's from Italy taken away because it had meat in it, so the ban doesn't just apply to "third world" countries.

Best general rule is no meat. You may be able to get a product here in the States because an importer works to get the product cleared but still not be able to carry it home with you.

Bring whatever you want back. If customs checks you and finds something you aren't supposed to bring back, play dumb. More often than not, you don't have anything to worry about.

People believing that it is OK to break whichever law they want to and play dumb if they get caught is one of things wrong with our current culture.

I would not encourage anyone to deliberately break the law, but due to the uncertainty of the rules, to bring back a can of Pate that has been subjected to sterilization temperatures (meaning pathogens are a moot point), to me, is a reasonable act, and when you declare it, allows Customs to make a decision.

I would be prepared for a negative verdict, maybe because they have no verification that the brand you have actually has been processed correctly, but as much due to their lack of information and taking a safe stance.

I think Paul has a reasonable suggestion. I wouldn't try to sneak anything in.

You could convert to vegan…problem solved! Or, just follow current guidelines and be done with it. Try your best to follow the rules, and if your product gets confiscated, you'll rest easy knowing you tried doing it the right way (even if you're disappointed). Just don't spend too much! Do some research, but don't waste so much time fretting over it.

You don't have to play dumb, just be honest. Say the rules are confusing and you weren't sure if you could bring it home are not.

As long as you declare it and are ready to part with it if/when it's confiscated, I don't see it as breaking a law.

If you don't declare it and try to sneak it back, that's another story.