Safflower Seeds

The dominant end-use is crushing for safflower oil, which is valued in the food industry for its high smoke point and in the health and cosmetics sectors for its fatty acid profile. A secondary market exists in the birdseed industry, where safflower is used as a squirrel-resistant component in wild bird feed mixes.

USDA APHIS phytosanitary requirements apply, and shipments must be accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate from the exporting country. Additionally, buyers typically specify moisture content and oil content thresholds in purchase contracts, as high moisture levels can cause rapid quality deterioration during transit. Admissibility classification is complex; consult a licensed customs broker or USDA APHIS for current requirements.