Live, Fresh, or Chilled Mussels (Mytilus spp., Perna spp.)

The distinction at the 10-digit level (farmed vs. not farmed) allows customs to apply potentially different duty rates and supports traceability for aquaculture products. Importers must be prepared to document the production method — typically through aquaculture certificates or harvest records — to ensure correct classification.

Yes. Shellfish destined for interstate commerce in the US must come from certified dealers listed under the National Shellfish Sanitation Program (NSSP). The foreign harvesting country or region must have a memorandum of understanding with the US recognizing its shellfish safety program, so importers should verify NSSP-equivalent certification before shipment.