CLA-2 CO:R:C:F 088327 RFC
Mr. Robert G. Houle
15 E. Alegria
Sierra Madre, CA 91024
RE: Saffron; azafran; spice; seasoning; food flavoring
Dear Mr. Houle:
This ruling letter is in response to your request of
November 18, 1990, concerning the tariff classification under the
Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States Annotated
(HTSUSA) of a certain spice.
FACTS:
The product is identified as "azafran." It is described as
"a spice that is used in Spanish dishes." Azafran is a Spanish-
language term that translates into the English-language term
"saffron." See Cassell's Spanish Dictionary 108, 1274 (1968).
Saffron is the deep-orange aromatic pungent dried stigmas and
styles of the saffron crocus (Crocus sativus) used to color and
flavor foods. See Explanatory Note 09.10 to the Harmonized
Commodity Description and Coding System; Webster's Ninth New
Collegiate Dictionary 1036 (1989).
FACTS:
What is the proper tariff classification of the spice
"saffron" (also known as "azafran")?
LAW AND ANALYSIS:
Classification of merchandise under the HTSUSA is governed
by the General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs). GRI 1 requires
that classification be determined first according to the terms of
the headings of the tariff and any relative section or chapter
notes and, unless otherwise required, then according to the
remaining GRIs, taken in order.
Heading 0910 of the HTSUSA provides eo nomine or
specifically for the spice "saffron." Accordingly, the instant
product is properly classified under this heading.
HOLDING:
The above-described product is properly classified under
subheading 0910.20.0000, HTSUSA, which provides for saffron.
This product may be entered free of duty.
Sincerely,
John Durant, Director
Commercial Rulings Division