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.
PENALTIES
- Fine: 300–10000 USD
- Civil penalty only
Leaving United States with sterilised hemp seeds (food grade)
Sterilised (non-viable) hemp seeds are a food commodity, exempt from cannabis-control legislation in United States because they cannot germinate. Retail-packaged hemp food products (seeds, hearts, protein) move freely for personal use. Keep products in original packaging showing sterilised/hulled status — the distinction from viable seeds matters at inspection, since viable cannabis seeds fall under narcotics-control frameworks in most jurisdictions. A few destinations still restrict hemp foods regardless of viability.
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.