Food
As a rule of thumb, condiments, baking goods and spices are allowed through customs gates with little hassle, but the rules get a bit hairier when it comes to fruits, vegetables, dairy or meat products.
Of course, most people wouldn’t try to bring a home-cooked meal or prepared food across international borders, but they may not realize that most countries have very specific rules on what meats can and can’t be brought in that may vary by country of origin and even by packing plant. Even those smoked, dried-out gourmet sausages that make great holiday gifts for unfamiliar relatives are not always permissible.
In Mexico, there is no easy one-stop-shop to parse through the layers of regulations governing meat imports from each different country. If you are really hesitant on buying that expensive fancy sausage, you can call the National Service of Health and Food Processing (Senasica) at 55-5905-1000, extensions 52170 through 52174 and let them know the specifics. They can inform you whether it will be permitted. You can request someone who speaks English.
The United States has similarly Byzantine laws. Importers can also call and verify the specifics of what they wish to bring before making the attempt. Dial 301-734-3277 to check animal products and 301-734-0841 to check on plant products.
The European Union (EU) is simpler, but also more restricted. Again meat and animal products are strictly limited. Travelers generally cannot bring meat, milk or their products from most countries, including Mexico. The EU’s slogan on the matter, “When in doubt, leave it out,” sends a pretty clear message.
Declarations
Coming into Mexico, all organic (plant or animal) products, even those approved by customs, must be declared on the customs form (section 6) prior to entry.
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