Why is citrus fruit not allowed in the US from Canada?

Question

I get asked that at the border alot if I go into Canada to buy groceries. The CBP on the US side always wants to know if I'm bringing citrus across.

Answer 1

Because of contamination.

The FDA does not want any fruit from other countries to cross our border.

They may have canker or they may carry insects not native to the USA.

This applies to all foreign fruit unless it was inspected and passed by the FDA.

It is interesting.

Yes and in other countries also.

But again the above applies.

There's alot of crazy going on's.

For instance, many European meats are not allowed in the USA.

The Europeans look at us in amazement.

They don't want any part of American meat because of the hormones and antibiotics.

But in countries where this practice is not used and the meat is actually better, the FDA bans it?

Makes you wonder if the FDA is really trying to protect us or is it something deeper? ( called cold hard cash).

Answer 2

It is to protect our economy - agriculture is big business in the US and the way to keep it safe from outside pests is to control what comes across our borders.  You know this does not always work, but it is at least an attempt to reduce the possibilities of contaminating our natural resources.  Companies that import foods are required to have inspection documentation and when you buy plants outside of the US they also have to have documentation.  It DOES seem weird to ask about citrus, but I have been asked about other food products as well.  Yuck, apple maggots!