Agricultural specialists with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the Nogales-Mariposa Port of Entry seized more than 14 pounds of pork after the meat was found wrapped in diapers inside a suitcase.
The discovery was made on a commercial bus on August 5 after the bus had entered the U.S. from Sinaloa, Mexico.
Authorities say the suitcase's owner was given a $300 penalty and the bus and its passengers proceeded through the port without any other incidents.
CBP says the seized pork and diapers were destroyed by incineration.
“Agriculture specialists in Nogales are always observant to prevent the introduction of prohibited agricultural products,” said Nogales Area Port Director Luz Garlarza in a press release. “This includes pork meat and pork products, which could lead to the introduction of animal diseases like Classical Swine Fever.”
CBP reminds travelers to declare all agricultural items upon their arrival to the U.S. to help agricultural specialists prevent the introduction of diseases and harmful pests.
A list of prohibited and permissible food items can be found here.
