Despite its name, buckwheat is botanically a pseudocereal — not a true grass — which gives it a gluten-free profile that drives demand from specialty food manufacturers and health-food retailers. Imported raw buckwheat groats and hulled kernels fall under this heading before any milling or processing occurs, and FDA oversight applies to food-destined shipments. Traders should note that buckwheat's relatively niche supply base and seasonal harvest windows in key growing regions can create meaningful price volatility and lead-time risk.

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