Sterilised hemp seeds (food grade) 🇺🇸 United States
Sterilised (non-viable) hemp seeds are permitted into the US, but viable hemp seeds remain a controlled substance under federal law.
Can I bring Sterilised hemp seeds (food grade) into United States?
Sterilised (non-viable) hemp seeds are permitted into the US, but viable hemp seeds remain a controlled substance under federal law.
Personal/commercial quantities of sterilised seeds are generally permissible with proper documentation
- Commercial invoice or packaging showing seeds are sterilised
- USDA APHIS Phytosanitary Certificate (for commercial quantities)
Required at the destination customs authority
Full details
Under the 2018 Farm Bill and USDA APHIS regulations, hemp (Cannabis sativa with ≤0.3% THC) is no longer a Schedule I controlled substance when it meets federal definition. However, CBP and USDA APHIS enforce that seeds must be non-viable (sterilised). Commercial sterilised hemp seeds are permissible if clearly labeled from a licensed supplier. Viable seeds remain prohibited under the Controlled Substances Act (21 USC 812). APHIS regulates plant material import under 7 CFR Part 319.
Carry only commercially packaged sterilised hemp seeds with clear labelling. Declare them to CBP and be prepared to show they are sterilised and non-viable. Do not carry loose or unlabelled seeds.
Personal/commercial quantities of sterilised seeds are generally permissible with proper documentation
- Commercial invoice or packaging showing seeds are sterilised
- USDA APHIS Phytosanitary Certificate (for commercial quantities)
Agriculture Improvement Act 2018 (Farm Bill); 21 USC 812 (CSA); 7 CFR Part 319 (APHIS)
This page covers destination customs rules in United States. Whether you can carry sterilised hemp seeds (food grade) through security, in carry-on, or in checked baggage depends on airline and screening rules — see air travel rules.
Related rules
Sterilised hemp seeds (food grade) rules in other countries
Sterilised hemp seeds (food grade)
🇨🇦 Canada
Sterilised hemp seeds for food use are legal in Canada and may be brought in by travellers, subject to declaration and food import rules.
Sterilised hemp seeds (food grade)
🇦🇺 Australia
All cannabis-derived plant material including sterilised hemp seeds requires a permit to import into Australia and is effectively prohibited for casual travellers.