Bringing a Banana Into the U.S. Could Cost You a Steep Fine and Your Global Entry Status
International travelers, take note—one simple mistake could cost you hundreds of dollars and your trusted traveler status with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). A viral Instagram video recently highlighted a costly lesson: a traveler who unknowingly brought a banana into the U.S. from overseas was hit with a $500 fine and lost their Global Entry privileges.
Why Such a Harsh Penalty?
CBP enforces strict agricultural regulations to prevent the introduction of foreign pests and diseases that could threaten U.S. crops. Fruits, vegetables, meats, and other agricultural products are tightly regulated, and even a single undeclared item could lead to a hefty fine. In the case of the viral video, the traveler didn’t realize that the banana they had picked up during their flight counted as an agricultural product requiring declaration.
When going through U.S. customs, all food items must be declared, even if they were given to you on an airplane. CBP officers determine whether an item is permitted or needs to be disposed of, but failure to declare an item can lead to severe consequences—like losing Global Entry.
Losing Global Entry: A Costly Mistake
Global Entry is a program that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to bypass long immigration lines when entering the U.S. However, a violation—such as failing to declare an agricultural item—can lead to immediate suspension from the program. Once revoked, getting reinstated is incredibly difficult, and many travelers find themselves permanently ineligible.
How to Avoid This Mistake
1. Declare Everything – If you’re unsure whether an item needs to be declared, always declare it. It’s better to be safe than fined.
2. Don’t Keep Airplane Food – If a flight attendant gives you a snack or fruit, eat it on the plane or throw it away before landing.
3. Check CBP’s Guidelines – Before flying internationally, review CBP’s list of restricted and prohibited food items. Even things that seem harmless—like an apple, sandwich, or beef jerky—can lead to a fine.
4. Be Honest With CBP Officers – If you accidentally bring in an item you shouldn’t have, honesty goes a long way. Travelers who declare restricted items often get them confiscated without penalties, but failing to declare them can trigger fines and bans.
Final Thoughts
For frequent travelers, a $500 fine is frustrating, but losing Global Entry can be even worse. If you’re traveling internationally, don’t let a banana ruin your trusted traveler status—declare everything, or better yet, don’t bring food off the plane at all.
Watch the original story here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGKA8XfMhJA/?igsh=MXRhOGNsYXRzczU3MA==
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