Spices
Spices are allowed, but ground/powdered spices over 12 oz per container need separate screening in carry-on.
Carry-on
Allowed with conditions
Checked
Allowed
Carry-on details
Allowed with conditions. Whole spices (cinnamon sticks, whole peppercorns, bay leaves) aren't restricted at all. Ground or powdered spices — chili powder, curry powder, cumin, and similar — are treated as powders under TSA's screening rule: containers larger than 12 oz (350 mL) must be removed from your bag and placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening, and may need additional inspection. Containers of 12 oz or less screen normally with the rest of your bag.
Checked-bag details
Allowed. No powder restriction applies in checked baggage, so ground or whole spices of any quantity can be packed there.
Quantity limit
12 oz (per container)
Special instructions
If you're bringing a large container of ground spice (more than 12 oz), pack it in checked luggage or somewhere easy to reach in carry-on, since it will need to come out for separate screening.
FAQ
- Are ground spices treated like a liquid at airport security?
- No, but they're treated as a powder. TSA screens powder-like substances separately from liquids: containers over 12 oz (350 mL) in carry-on get pulled for a dedicated X-ray screening rather than a strict ban.
- Do whole spices like cinnamon sticks or peppercorns have any restriction?
- No. Whole, unground spices aren't powders and aren't subject to the 12 oz screening rule — they travel like any other solid food item.
Related items
Source: TSA — What Can I Bring? · Last verified: 2026-07-31
Final decision rests with the security officer at the checkpoint.