CBP Intercepts Hazardous Grain Pest at Detroit Airport, Urges Declaring Agriculture Items

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is emphasizing the importance of declaring all food and plant items for international travelers. This reminder follows a significant interception of khapra beetle remains at Detroit Metropolitan Airport.

Interception of Hazardous Grain Pest

The interception occurred on April 18, when a passenger returning from Lebanon underwent a secondary inspection. Agriculture specialists discovered undeclared seeds intended for planting in the traveler’s luggage. This incident highlights how easily invasive pests can infiltrate the United States through unreported agricultural goods.

Threats Posed by Khapra Beetle

The khapra beetle is recognized as one of the world’s most destructive grain pests. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) categorizes it as a quarantine-significant pest, due to the severe damage it can inflict if it enters the country. The dangerous characteristics of this beetle include:

• Ability to damage stored grain products, rendering them inedible.
• Long dormancy periods, complicating detection and control.
• Resistance to many pesticides, making eradication efforts costly and prolonged.

Fadia Pastilong, Area Port Director, stated, “Khapra beetle is one of the many significant threats we face at our borders.” Even minor signs of the pest, such as shed skin, are concerning.

The Role of CBP in Protecting Agriculture

CBP urges travelers to declare all food, plant, and agricultural items upon their arrival in the U.S. to help prevent the introduction of such invasive pests and diseases.

Marty C. Raybon, CBP’s director of field operations, emphasized the importance of honest declarations. He stated, “This allows CBP personnel to examine items, if necessary, to determine if they are permissible and free of any potential threats.”

CBP’s Commitment to National Security

As the nation’s largest law enforcement agency, CBP plays a crucial role in enforcing regulations that govern trade, travel, and agriculture. With more than 67,000 personnel nationwide, they work to protect not only the economy but also the national security of the United States.