Maté — the dried, often smoked leaves of Ilex paraguariensis — occupies its own SITC heading distinct from conventional tea, reflecting its unique botanical origin and South American cultural significance. As a food product entering the US, it is subject to FDA oversight, including prior notice requirements and potential examination for pesticide residues and labeling compliance. The beverage ingredient market for maté has grown alongside energy-drink formulations, making accurate classification between whole-leaf maté and maté-based preparations commercially important.

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