Can Beef Jerky Cross The Border? Here’s What You Need To Know

Whether you’re packing snacks for a road trip or returning home from an international adventure, the question of whether beef jerky can cross the border often arises. The answer depends on various factors, including the destination country’s regulations and the type of beef jerky you have.

Regulations and Restrictions

United States

• Beef jerky is generally allowed into the US from most countries.
• However, it must be declared to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon arrival.
• Jerky from countries with foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) may be prohibited or require special permits.

Canada

• Beef jerky is allowed into Canada from the US and most other countries.
• It must be commercially packaged and labeled.
• Homemade or unpackaged jerky may be prohibited.

Mexico

• Beef jerky is generally allowed into Mexico.
• It must be declared to Mexican Customs and may be subject to inspection.

European Union (EU)

• Beef jerky is generally allowed into the EU from most countries.
• It must be commercially packaged and labeled.
• Jerky from countries with FMD may be prohibited.

Types of Beef Jerky

Commercial Beef Jerky

• Commercially packaged beef jerky typically meets the regulations of most countries.
• It is usually vacuum-sealed or dehydrated and has a long shelf life.

Homemade Beef Jerky

• Homemade beef jerky may not meet the same regulations as commercial jerky.
• It may not be vacuum-sealed or dehydrated and may have a shorter shelf life.
• Homemade jerky may be prohibited or require special permits in some countries.

Tips for Crossing the Border with Beef Jerky

• Declare your beef jerky to Customs upon arrival.
• Keep it in its original packaging.
• If you have homemade jerky, be prepared to explain its origin and ingredients.
• Consider purchasing commercially packaged jerky to avoid potential issues.
• Check the regulations of your destination country before traveling.

Other Considerations

• Quantity: Some countries may have restrictions on the amount of beef jerky you can bring in.
• Meat Content: Jerky with a high meat content may be more likely to be prohibited.
• Packaging: Vacuum-sealed or dehydrated jerky is more likely to be allowed across borders.
• Permits: Certain countries may require permits for importing beef jerky from countries with FMD.

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I bring beef jerky from Mexico to the US?
A: Yes, beef jerky is generally allowed into the US from Mexico.

Q: Can I bring homemade beef jerky to Canada?
A: Homemade beef jerky may be prohibited or require a special permit. Commercially packaged jerky is generally allowed.

Q: What are the regulations for bringing beef jerky into the EU?
A: Beef jerky must be commercially packaged and labeled. Jerky from countries with FMD may be prohibited.

Q: Can I bring beef jerky from Brazil to the US?
A: Brazil is a country with FMD. Jerky from Brazil may be prohibited or require a permit.

Q: How much beef jerky can I bring into the US?
A: There is no specific limit, but excessive amounts may raise suspicion.