Importing Easter Eggs Into the U.S.

The Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Customs and Border Control (CBP) has placed a ban on the importation into the U.S. of whole painted eggshells originating in countries affected with Exotic Newcastle Disease and Avian Influenza, which includes Ukraine. This includes the decorative Ukrainian Easter eggs known as "pysanky." Although pysanky are usually exposed to high temperatures, painted and coated with wax, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulations still apply. Considering the recent Easter holidays, there is likely to be an increase in the number of travelers carrying decorative eggs from Ukraine to the U.S.

Airline passengers having such items will be given the option to 1) immediately export; 2) destroy under CBP supervision; 3) authorize movement to an approved establishment.

Under most circumstances when found in passenger baggage, whole empty egg shells will be seized for destruction.

CBP enforces USDA regulations. For further information call USDA at 301-734-7633 or visit www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel.