USDA FSIS jurisdiction is triggered when a frozen product contains meat, poultry, or egg products as defined under the Federal Meat Inspection Act or Poultry Products Inspection Act. A frozen vegetable medley, for example, falls under FDA, while a frozen chicken pot pie or beef entrée requires FSIS inspection from an approved foreign establishment. Products near the boundary—such as those with small amounts of meat-based flavoring—should be reviewed carefully to determine the correct agency.

Frozen vegetables that are simply blanched and frozen are generally classified as 'prepared or preserved' vegetables at a lower level of processing, while those combined with sauces, seasonings, or other ingredients may be classified as prepared food preparations subject to different—often higher—duty rates. The degree of processing and the presence of added ingredients are the key classification variables, and importers should review product formulations carefully before entry.