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What are the requirements for importing coffee, tea or spices for personal use?

There are no restrictions on the importation of coffee, tea or spices for personal use, although they may be subject to Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) inspections if a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officer suspects contamination or insect infestation of the product.

Please note that tea or spices containing fruit or vegetable leaves or seeds, including citrus leaves or seeds, are typically prohibited.

Can I bring in food as a traveler (fruit, cheese, meat, etc.)?

The information contained in this answer does not apply to food being sent to the U.S. through the mail, courier services or other means. This information only covers food (fruit, chees, meat, etc.) entering the United States in passenger baggage for personal use. See the question "How do I import food (canned goods, meat, vegetables, fruits, bulk food, etc.) for resale?" for information on importing food for resale.

You may be able to bring in food such as fruits, meats or other agricultural products depending on the region or country from which you are traveling. Restrictions are placed on these products to protect community health, preserve the environment and prevent the introduction of devastating diseases to domestic plants and animals.

Failure to declare food products can result in up to $10,000 in fines and penalties.

The following are generally admissible:
...
-Spices- most dried spices are allowed except for orange, lemon, lime and other citrus leaves and seeds, lemongrass, and many vegetable and fruit seeds