I might have something illegal in my cupboard. Since 1968 it has been against the law to import Sichuan peppercorns into the United States. Enforcement has been lax until the last couple years. These reddish-brown berries are one of the components of five spice powder. Because the plant belongs to the citrus family, the peppers are on the USDA’s banned list as citrus plants may carry a canker which is harmful to our citrus crops. Recent changes to the field inspectors’ manual has resulted in strict enforcement of the Sichuan peppercorn ban and stores have reported that their stock has been confiscated. Apparently if you know where to go and how to ask (in Chinese of course) you can still find it in some markets. And you can try sneaking it across the border from Canada, but you risk a $1,000 fine. There is actually no evidence that this spice has actually ever transmitted the canker. (source: NY Times article)