0505.90.20 - Feather meal and waste

This category, 0505.90.20, encompasses feather meal and waste. Feather meal is a product derived from processing feathers, often used as a fertilizer due to its high nitrogen content. Feather waste refers to discarded or scrap feathers that have not undergone further manufacturing processes beyond cleaning or disinfection. The scope of this classification is limited to these specific forms of feather byproducts.

Distinction from sibling categories is primarily based on the specific nature of the material. While the "Other" category (0505.90.60.00) at this level would capture any feather or down-related items not fitting into the more defined subdivisions, this specific code is reserved for the processed meal and unformed waste.

Within this category, further subdivisions exist to delineate between feather meal and other types of feather waste. Subcategory 0505.90.20.20 specifically identifies feather meal, a distinct processed product. The remaining feather waste, not classified as meal, falls under 0505.90.20.40. This bifurcated approach allows for more precise tariff application based on the specific form and potential use of the feather byproducts.