1604.17.40.00 - Neither cooked nor in oil

HTS code 1604.17.40.00 specifically covers eels that are prepared for consumption but have not undergone cooking and are not preserved in oil. This category encompasses various forms of eel, such as whole fish or pieces, that have been processed to a certain degree but remain in a raw or semi-raw state and are not packed in oil. Examples might include chilled or frozen eels that have been subjected to minimal preparation but do not meet the criteria for cooked products or those preserved in oil.

This classification is distinct from its sibling category, 1604.17.50.00, which is designated for "Other" eels. The "Other" category would encompass eels that are prepared or preserved in ways not covered by 1604.17.40.00, such as cooked eels, eels preserved in oil, or potentially other forms of prepared eels that do not fit the specific "neither cooked nor in oil" criteria. The crucial differentiating factor lies in the processing method and the absence of cooking or oil preservation for goods classified under 1604.17.40.00.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories that subdivide this specific classification. Therefore, all goods meeting the criteria of neither cooked nor preserved in oil, and falling under the broader scope of eels (1604.17), will be classified under this code. The focus remains on ensuring that the physical state and preparation method of the eel align precisely with the "neither cooked nor in oil" descriptor.