1008.10.00.00 - Buckwheat

This HTS classification, 1008.10.00.00, specifically designates buckwheat. Buckwheat, scientifically known as *Fagopyrum esculentum*, is a pseudocereal crop cultivated for its grain-like seeds. It is distinct from other grains due to its botanical classification, belonging to the Polygonaceae family, rather than the Poaceae (grass) family like wheat or barley. This distinction is crucial for accurate tariff classification.

Within its parent heading, "Buckwheat, millet and canary seeds; other cereals (including wild rice)," this category isolates buckwheat from its direct siblings. Millet (1008.20.00.00) refers to a group of small-seeded grasses, canary seeds (1008.30.00.00) are specifically for bird feed, and other cereals would encompass items not otherwise specified within this chapter. The focus here is solely on buckwheat, whether whole, cracked, or processed into forms like groats.

As a leaf node, this classification does not have further subcategories. Therefore, classification within 1008.10.00.00 hinges on the identification of the product as buckwheat. This includes various forms of the buckwheat seed, such as hulled or dehulled grains, grits, or flakes, provided they retain the characteristic properties of buckwheat and are not further processed into distinct products classified elsewhere (e.g., flours or prepared foods).