Esters of Formic Acid

The classification turns on whether the alcohol portion of the ester contains an aromatic ring system. Methyl formate and ethyl formate, for example, are non-aromatic and fall under 2915135000, while phenyl formate would be aromatic under 2915131000. When the compound identity is ambiguous, a CBP binding ruling provides certainty.

Formate esters that are GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) or approved food additives may be imported without a specific FDA import alert, but FDA retains authority to sample and detain shipments. Importers should maintain documentation of the compound's regulatory status and intended use to facilitate smooth entry.