§1046 Imports

Summary

Restricted eggs that could be used for human food must not be brought into the United States unless the Secretary allows it by regulation. Egg products may only be imported if they were processed under an approved continuous inspection system in the foreign country and meet U.S. packaging, labeling, and quality rules. Eggs packed for sale to consumers must come with a certificate saying they were kept refrigerated at an ambient temperature no higher than 45 degrees Fahrenheit after packaging, as required by sections 1034(e) and 1037(c) of this title. Imported eggs and egg products are treated like U.S. articles and must follow the chapter’s other rules and import labeling. The rule does not apply to eggs or egg products an individual buys abroad for their household and their nonpaying guests or employees. The Secretary can set rules for destroying items imported in violation, unless the consignee exports them within the time the Secretary sets or fixes misbranding under official supervision. The owner or consignee must pay storage, transport, and labor charges; if they don’t, those charges become a lien on the goods and on later imports for that owner. Importing items in violation of these rules is prohibited.