The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced that representatives from the North Pole were among the visitors checking out the agency’s new traveler information webpage.

The site, launched in September 2018, provides everyone with important information about which agricultural items are safe to enter the U.S. – and which ones are best left behind. This helps protect the health of the country’s plants, animals and natural resources, ensuring many happy holidays to come, the announcement said.

“As we are in the overall season of family, feasting and gift giving, we are thrilled to hear directly from Santa’s elves that the big man himself was comparing his gift list to our requirements,” Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said. “We thank Santa for setting a great example of thoughtful and responsible gift giving. We know he always does his part by getting a movement permit for his reindeer to enter the U.S., but this year, he’s going above and beyond to help protect our farmers, ranchers and citizens.”

Both food items and other agricultural items (things like plants, seeds and gifts made from wood or plants) from other countries can carry pests and diseases not found in the U.S. For these reasons, certain items are not allowed to be carried in by travelers. Other items may be allowed with specific documentation. USDA’s new site helps everyone looking to bring an agricultural gift from overseas know what is okay to bring back.

So, whether it's selecting a holiday gift for this season or just planning ahead for next summer’s vacation souvenirs, be sure to check out the site before purchasing gifts.

Visit the site here: www.aphis.usda.gov/travel