Groats and Meal of Corn (Maize)

The key differentiator is particle size: corn flour is finely milled to a powder, while groats and meal retain a coarser texture. CBP may use sieve analysis or product specifications to confirm classification. Importers should obtain a certificate of analysis from the supplier documenting particle size distribution and ensure commercial invoices describe the product as 'cornmeal' or 'grits' rather than 'flour' when the coarser classification applies.

Corn grits and meal used as adjuncts in beer brewing are regulated as food ingredients by FDA, requiring the foreign supplier to be registered as a food facility and the importer to maintain FSMA foreign supplier verification records. There is no separate TTB import permit required for unfermented grain adjuncts, but importers should confirm end-use documentation is in order to support the food-grade classification at entry.