With the soaring cost of eggs, Americans have resorted to smuggling them into the country from Mexico.
New U.S. Customs and Border Protection data has confirmed startling statistics about the forbidden egg trade. The number of eggs seized through January 17th increased by 91 percent at the El Paso, Texas, field office. Even more shocking, there was a 301 percent leap in Laredo, Texas, a 333 percent jump in Tucson, Arizona, and another 368 percent boost in San Diego, California, compared to the same timeframe the previous year.
For months, Americans have been subjected to an increase in food prices, eggs being one of the most notable items to see a shocking cost surge. This has strained families on fixed incomes, with calls to the government to intervene. The last effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, a bird flu outbreak, and labor costs are among the factors making these grocery essentials nearly impossible to afford. In December, the national average for eggs reached $4.25 for a dozen, up $2.47 from the year before. For this reason, egg smuggling has become a lucrative business. Uncooked eggs from Mexico are not allowed to enter the United States due to the increased risk of bird flu and Newcastle Disease, a contagious illness found in birds.
Most people caught with the prohibited food were carrying 30-egg cartons purchased at lower prices in nearby Mexican markets. Due to the close proximity of small Mexican towns, it is not uncommon for U.S. residents living near the border to do their grocery shopping in the nearby country. Most people who bring the eggs back from Mexico do not realize this is a crime and show their receipts to patrol officers. In those instances, the eggs were seized, and they were not fined. However, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection has reported some individuals who do not admit they purchased the eggs have been ordered to pay fines for illegal smuggling.
Failure to declare agricultural items at the border can result in up to $10,000 in penalties.
