The primary starch or grain input — potato, corn, rice, wheat, or legume — is the first classification determinant for snack foods. A potato-based chip and a corn-based extruded snack fall under different HTS chapters, with different duty rates and potentially different trade remedy exposure. Secondary factors include whether the product is fried or baked and whether it contains added flavoring.

Imported snack foods must carry English-language labels compliant with FDA nutrition facts panel requirements, ingredient declarations, net quantity statements, and allergen disclosures. Products making nutrient content or health claims must meet specific FDA regulatory standards for those claims. Non-compliant labeling is a common cause of FDA detention; consult a licensed customs broker or regulatory specialist before shipment.