Imported lard must originate from a foreign establishment that has been certified by its national competent authority and approved by USDA FSIS. At the US port of entry, FSIS inspectors conduct reinspection for labeling, condition, and compliance with US standards. Shipments that fail reinspection are subject to refusal of entry. Importers should confirm that their foreign supplier maintains current FSIS approval before contracting.

Heading 1501 covers lard and other rendered pig fat in their primary rendered form, including refined lard. Heading 1503 covers lard stearin (the solid fraction obtained by fractionating lard), lard oil (the liquid fraction), and oleostearin — products that have undergone further physical separation. The distinction matters because the two headings carry different duty rates and the fractionated products may have different end-use applications in food manufacturing and oleochemicals.