0602.90.50.00 - Mushroom spawn

Mushroom spawn, classified under HTS code 0602.90.50.00, refers to the material used to initiate mushroom cultivation. This typically includes mycelium, which is the vegetative part of a fungus, grown on a substrate such as grain, sawdust, or compost. The primary purpose of mushroom spawn is to introduce fungal growth into a suitable growing medium, enabling the production of mushrooms for consumption or other commercial uses. This material is specifically prepared and sterilized to ensure purity and viability.

This specific classification for mushroom spawn is distinct from other live plants, cuttings, and slips found within the broader category of "Other live plants (including their roots), cuttings and slips; mushroom spawn." While those items are generally intended for propagation of higher plant life, mushroom spawn is exclusively for fungal propagation. It differs from other "Other" subcategories by its inherent biological nature as a fungal starter material rather than a live plant or its vegetative parts.

As this is a leaf node in the HTS classification, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, classification relies on accurately identifying the product as mushroom spawn, prepared specifically for initiating mushroom growth, and distinguishing it from live plant material. Importers and exporters should ensure that the documentation clearly identifies the material as mushroom spawn to facilitate correct customs clearance.