1509.20 - Extra virgin olive oil:

This HTS category, 1509.20, specifically classifies "Extra virgin olive oil." This designation denotes the highest quality of olive oil, obtained directly from olives and solely by mechanical or other physical means, under conditions that do not alter the oil. It must meet stringent chemical and organoleptic standards, characterized by a free acidity, expressed as oleic acid, of not more than 0.8 grams per 100 grams and a sensory score above 6.5, with no sensory defects.

Within the broader heading 1509, which covers "Olive oil and its fractions, whether or not refined, but not chemically modified," this subcategory distinguishes itself by the "extra virgin" classification. Siblings such as "Virgin olive oil" (1509.30) and "Other virgin olive oils" (1509.40) represent oils that may meet some virgin olive oil criteria but not the stricter standards of extra virgin. The "Other" category (1509.90) encompasses refined olive oils or olive oils not meeting the virgin classifications.

The subcategories under 1509.20, namely 1509.20.20 and 1509.20.90, introduce a further level of specificity based on packaging. 1509.20.20 is for extra virgin olive oil packaged with its immediate container weighing less than 18 kilograms, commonly found in retail sizes. Conversely, 1509.20.90 captures all other extra virgin olive oil shipments, which would typically include larger, bulk containers intended for industrial or commercial distribution. This distinction is crucial for customs processing and duty assessment.