Traveling into a foreign country can be an adventurous experience, but it also means going through a customs inspection. Being an educated traveler will help you navigate through customs with ease. In Mexico, the SENASICA office (National Office of Health, Food Safety, and Quality) outlines clear regulations on what items Mexico allows into their borders. Read on for more information about bringing food into Mexico.
Allowed Imports by Mexico Customs
If you are planning on bringing food into Mexico, there are certain foods allowed by Mexican Customs as long as they are intended for personal consumption and do not risk bringing disease or pests into the country. Although these items are allowed into the country, they are still subject to inspection by customs.
- Smoking tobacco
- Honey
- Dried, roasted, or preserved fruits and vegetables including coffee, herbs, and spices
- Dry cooked, packed, and bottled foods
- Smoked poultry such as chicken or turkey. These items must be in their original packaging and properly labeled.
- If traveling from the United States or Canada, refrigerated, frozen, vacuum-packed milk and cheese are allowed. These items must be in their original packaging and properly labeled (USDA Label is required).
Restricted Items
These items are allowed into the country by Mexico border rules, depending on their origin and manufacturing process. They also must meet certain importation requirements. More information on these items can be found on the SENASICA website at www.senasica.gob.mx
- Seeds, seedlings, and fresh plants. Be especially careful with items such as trail mix and granola bars that often include seeds.
- Fresh fruit, vegetables, flowers, and cereals
- Dairy products
- Flour and corn meal
Prohibited Imports by Mexico Customs
These foods have been deemed by the SENASICA office of Mexico to present a risk of introducing pests or disease into the country, and are not allowed under any circumstances.
- Homemade food items
- Fresh, dried, or frozen pork
- Fresh, refrigerated, or frozen poultry
- Fresh, refrigerated, or frozen beef
Traveling with Pets
Many loyal pet owners enjoying taking their animals with them on vacation. It is important to remember that there are also restrictions on pet travel and bringing them into other countries. In Mexico, only dogs and cats are recognized as pets and will be allowed into the country, providing they have documentation of the required vaccinations. Other animals, such as rabbits or hamsters, are not considered pets. They may be allowed into Mexico, but with much stricter guidelines. Also, be cautious when bringing food for your animals, as SENASICA only allows the importation of dried pet food with no beef products. Contact us today for more information about Mexican Customs and border rules.
