Do you carry betel nuts on international flights? Here is your guide to international customs Lifestyle News

Special restrictions on carrying betel nuts or betel nuts, especially in the US

Dr Vandana Singh, Director, Global Corporate Key Account Management at Saudi Cargo, tells indianexpress.com, “Yes, there are specific restrictions. US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enforces strict regulations on food items, including betel nuts. While small quantities are allowed for personal use, passengers must declare all food items upon entry. Failed to declare There can be significant fines, potentially reaching up to $10,000. In addition, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued import alerts that may result in automatic seizure of betel nuts if detected by customs officials.

Dr. Singh also informed that there are general restrictions regarding betel nut for international air travel as well as customs rules. “Different airlines may have different policies regarding carrying betel nuts. For example, some airlines allow passengers to carry a limited amount of betel nuts in their checked bags, while others may prohibit it entirely. Passengers should check with their airline in advance to avoid any last-minute surprises or complications.

Consult airline policies as different airlines may have different restrictions on carrying food items or carrying them in checked baggage. (Source: Freepik)

Possible reasons why customs officials may seize betel nuts

Customs officials may seize betel nuts for a number of reasons, primarily health concerns. Areca nuts have been linked to various health risks, including cancer, prompting heightened scrutiny from authorities, says Dr Singh. “FDA’s import alerts reflect these safety concerns. Furthermore, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits the importation of raw or unprocessed betel nuts. Pests and diseases In American Agriculture. If travelers cannot provide adequate documentation regarding the origin and processing of the nuts, customs may consider this as a risk factor. “

Differentiate between carrying raw, processed, or packaged betel nuts when traveling abroad

Dr Singh commented, “Yes, there are significant differences. Crude betel nut Agricultural imports are generally prohibited due to restrictions. processed betel nut It can be allowed if it is properly packaged and declared; However, it still faces scrutiny due to health concerns.”

In contrast, pre-packaged products from reputable manufacturers are more likely to be accepted but must still be declared to customs.

How can travelers ensure that customs regulations are followed while carrying food items like betel nuts?

To ensure compliance, Dr Singh says travelers should follow several guidelines: First, always declare all food items to customs, including small quantities needed for personal use. Familiarize yourself with both US and international regulations Food imports; Resources on permitted and prohibited items can be found on the CBP website.

“Proper packaging is essential; betel nuts should be sealed in airtight containers or pouches to prevent spillage or contamination during transit. Additionally, consult airline policies as different airlines may have different restrictions on carrying food items or carrying them in checked baggage. Keeping Documents Also important; if carrying processed products, keep receipts or documents proving their origin and processing,” she says.

Airlines typically impose limits on how many betel nuts can be carried per passenger, so it’s important to be aware of these quantity restrictions. At airport security checkpoints around the world, any betel nut must be declared to a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officer. “Failure to declare this item can lead to delays or possible seizure. Once declared, it goes through the same screening process as any other item,” says Dr Singh.