You must declare all food products. If you fail to declare food products, you could face up to $10,000 in fines and penalties. If you declare all agricultural products you are bringing with you, you won't be charged any penalties, even if an inspector determines that they can't enter the country.

Yes, you must declare all food items, including canned goods, when entering the United States. While many commercially canned products are admissible, the "High-Fidelity" rule is that the Customs (CBP) officer makes the final determination. Generally, canned fish, seafood, and most fruits/vegetables are allowed for personal consumption if they are shelf-stable and in their original, unopened packaging. However, canned meat is a major exception; due to concerns over Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Avian Influenza, canned products containing beef, pork, or poultry from many countries are strictly prohibited. Even if the can is "hermetically sealed," it may be confiscated if the country of origin is on a restricted list. Failure to declare any food item can result in fines starting at $300 and the loss of "Global Entry" privileges. The safest course of action in 2026 is to list every item on your declaration form; if it’s allowed, you’re through—if not, the officer will simply take it away without a penalty.