Egg Seizures at US Borders Outpace Fentanyl Amid Bird Flu Outbreak

Federal data reveals a surprising trend at the United States borders: egg product seizures are occurring more frequently than seizures of the highly dangerous synthetic opioid, fentanyl. This phenomenon is unfolding against the backdrop of a severe and ongoing avian influenza outbreak that has significantly impacted the poultry industry, leading to shortages and price increases for eggs across the nation.

According to data compiled by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the number of egg product seizures has reached 5,572 so far in the current fiscal year. In the prior fiscal year of 2024, there were approximately 15,955 interceptions of egg products. The fiscal year 2023 saw a slightly higher number, with 16,541 such interceptions.

In stark contrast, CBP officers have conducted a significantly lower number of fentanyl seizure events. The data indicates that there have been 413 drug seizure events involving fentanyl in fiscal year 2025, resulting in the confiscation of 6,184 pounds of the opioid. In fiscal year 2024, there were 1,116 fentanyl seizure events, leading to the seizure of 21,889 pounds of the drug.

While the volume of fentanyl seized in individual incidents is substantially greater due to its weight, the sheer frequency of egg seizures is notable. This disparity underscores the extent to which individuals are attempting to bring egg products into the country, despite regulations and potential consequences.

USA TODAY has contacted CBP to solicit further comment and explanation regarding this unusual trend. The agency has acknowledged the request and is reportedly preparing a response.

In February, CBP’s San Diego field office highlighted a dramatic increase in egg interceptions, reporting a surge of 158% compared to fiscal year 2024. The field office issued a warning to travelers, emphasizing that they could face substantial fines if they attempt to import prohibited agricultural products, particularly raw eggs from Mexico, due to the inherent risk of introducing diseases.

Sidney Aki, CBP Director of Field Operations in San Diego, emphasized the importance of informing the public to protect the agricultural industry while facilitating legitimate trade and travel. He stated, "It is critical that we keep our traveling public informed to safeguard our agricultural industry while continuing to facilitate legitimate trade and travel."

The San Diego field office also referenced the Department of Agriculture’s ongoing battle against the "devastating outbreak of avian influenza." The outbreak has decimated poultry populations across the United States, leading to significant economic repercussions, including escalating egg and poultry prices. The field office stated, "This ongoing bird flu outbreak, the worst on record, serves as a reminder of the role human behaviors, such as transporting birds and avian products, can play in disease transmission."

The field office elaborated on how seemingly innocuous items, such as soiled bird cages and used egg cartons, can act as vectors for disease transmission. Travelers who wish to bring agricultural products into the United States are required to declare these items to CBP officers and agricultural specialists. Failure to declare such products can result in fines of up to $10,000.

Specifically, fresh eggs, raw chicken, and live birds from Mexico are strictly prohibited from entering the United States. According to CBP regulations, all fruits, vegetables, plants, cut flowers, meat, animal products, and live animals must be declared upon entry.

The illegal importation of eggs is occurring amidst a backdrop of rising prices and consumer anxieties. Recent data from the Consumer Price Index (CPI) revealed that egg prices continued to climb in February, despite a general easing of inflation.

The average price of a dozen large Grade A eggs in U.S. cities, without seasonal adjustments, rose to $5.90 in February, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This represents a significant increase from $4.95 in January and $4.14 in December, illustrating the rapid price escalation.

The scarcity of eggs in the United States has prompted the government to explore alternative sources of supply. Reports indicate that the U.S. has contacted Denmark and other European nations to inquire about the possibility of importing eggs. The Nordic country’s egg association has confirmed these discussions, according to Reuters.

The issue of egg prices has even entered the political arena. Former President Donald Trump previously pledged to lower egg prices on his first day in office. However, despite this promise, egg prices actually increased by 59% on a year-on-year basis in February, highlighting the complexity of addressing market fluctuations and supply chain disruptions.

The confluence of factors – the bird flu outbreak, rising egg prices, import restrictions, and consumer demand – has created a situation where the illegal importation of eggs has become a surprisingly prevalent issue at U.S. borders, exceeding even the seizures of the deadly opioid fentanyl in frequency. This unusual trend underscores the significant impact of the avian influenza outbreak on the poultry industry and the lengths to which individuals are willing to go to obtain eggs, even if it means risking fines and contributing to the potential spread of disease. The situation highlights the need for continued vigilance at the border, as well as efforts to control the spread of avian influenza and stabilize the egg supply chain within the United States.