Fresh or Chilled Witloof Chicory (Belgian Endive)

Guatemala's high-altitude growing regions provide the cool temperatures needed for chicory root development, and its proximity to the US reduces transit time and freight costs compared to European suppliers. Belgian and Dutch producers remain important for premium and specialty market segments, but Guatemalan production has grown to serve the broader US foodservice and retail market on a cost-competitive basis.

Heading 070521 is limited to Cichorium intybus var. foliosum — the specific botanical variety that produces the blanched chicon. Other chicory varieties, including radicchio (Cichorium intybus var. silvestre) and curly endive or escarole (Cichorium endivia), are classified under heading 070529. Botanical variety documentation from the grower is the most reliable basis for distinguishing between the two headings.