1207.40.00 - Sesame seeds

This HTS category, 1207.40.00, specifically covers sesame seeds. Sesame seeds are the small, oily seeds of the sesame plant (Sesamum indicum), widely cultivated for their edible oil and for culinary uses. This classification applies to raw, unprocessed sesame seeds, whether whole or broken, prior to any further processing that might alter their fundamental classification.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings is crucial for accurate classification. For instance, while both 1207.10.00.00 (palm nuts and kernels) and 1207.30.00.00 (castor oil seeds) fall under "Other oil seeds and oleaginous fruits," they represent distinct botanical sources with different compositions and primary uses. Similarly, 1207.50.00.00 (mustard seeds) are differentiated by their characteristic pungent flavor and distinct culinary and industrial applications. This category is narrowly focused solely on sesame seeds, excluding other oil-bearing seeds like cotton seeds or safflower seeds.

Within HTS code 1207.40.00, two subcategories exist to further refine the classification of sesame seeds. The first, 1207.40.00.10, specifically designates "Certified organic" sesame seeds, requiring adherence to established organic certification standards. The second, 1207.40.00.90, covers all "Other" sesame seeds that do not meet the certified organic criteria. This subdivision allows for a more granular tracking of sesame seed imports based on their production methodology.