San Diegans have seen the price of eggs soar because of avian flu, and even some have turned to cross the U.S. Mexico border, where the price equals nearly $3. Unfortunately, It is prohibited to bring raw eggs or poultry products across the border under federal law.
According to Customs and Border Protection Director of Field Operations in San Diego Jennifer De La O, there has been an uptick in egg seizures at the San Ysidro and Otay Mesa Ports of Entry. Those who fail to declare agriculture items may result in penalties of up to $10,000.
Individuals bringing smaller amounts of eggs may face civil penalties closer to $300.
According to the Economic Research Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 2022 inflation for dairy, poultry, and eggs exceeded that for 2022 food in general. Eggs had the largest inflation rate at 32.2 percent.
Between Oct. 1 to Dec.31 of last year, egg prices rose from $3.50 to $5.30 as avian flu forced impacted egg-laying hens. As of January 11, at 412 cents per dozen, the daily average price was more than one dollar lower than the highest daily price in late December, according to the USDA.
Anyone planning to ship in Mexico is advised to consult CBP’s comprehensive list of restricted and prohibited items before returning to the United States. Eggs that are seized at the border will eggs will be incinerated, according to CBP officials.
