What to do with unused/unopened food?

We are told by moving companies we cannot bring one iota of food into the States, not even a spice jar or anything.

Do grocery stores accept unopened tins, unopened cake mixes, etc?  Or just offer to friends?  I'm wondering if it is uncooth to offer food to neighbors, friends?  Seems like people might be put off by that.

Are there food banks here? Or are any churches around you accepting food donations for the needy?

If you are close to your neighbors, I'd tell them they are welcome to it. But you might want to see if any of the charities will take it - or a church in a poor area that might have an outreach program.

<x-posted with bmore>

Unless you want to take insane amounts, you could just carry it in your luggage when you fly. Just as long as it's not fruit or raw meat, you should be able to take it.

At least we've taken foodstuffs to America for years, and we've never had anything removed even when our bags have been inspected (unless things have changed within the year).

I'd be happy if a neighbor asked me if I wanted food if they were moving.  I would have no problem with it, but then again I'm pro-free stuff!

If you feel weird about it, you could donate it to charity.  I bet they'd even come and pick it up.