Frozen Fish Meat (Other Than Fillets)

The key distinction is form: fillets are slices cut lengthwise from the fish, whereas this category covers minced, chunked, or otherwise portioned fish meat that does not meet the fillet definition. Misclassifying minced or block-frozen fish meat as fillets can result in duty discrepancies and entry delays, so the physical form at time of importation governs classification.

Importers must ensure the foreign processing facility is registered with FDA and that shipments comply with HACCP-based seafood safety regulations. FDA may conduct physical examination or sampling at the port of entry, and prior notice of arrival is required under the Bioterrorism Act. Admissibility and classification are complex; consult a licensed customs broker or FDA-registered import specialist.