Inedible Fish, Crustacean, and Aquatic Invertebrate Products (Including Dead Animals and Fertilized Eggs)

Fertilized fish eggs classified under 0511910010 may be subject to USDA APHIS import permits and health certification requirements designed to prevent the introduction of aquatic animal diseases such as viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS) or infectious salmon anemia (ISA). Requirements vary by species and country of origin. Importers should obtain the applicable APHIS import permit well in advance of shipment, as processing times can be lengthy. Consult a licensed customs broker familiar with aquatic animal imports.

Dead fish and aquatic invertebrates that are fit for human consumption are classified in Chapters 3 or 16 depending on their form and preparation. Products under heading 051191 are specifically those unfit for human consumption — including processing waste, spent fish, and inedible byproducts. The intended use and fitness for consumption are the primary classification determinants, and importers should document the inedible status of the product to support the Chapter 5 classification.