2309.90.48.10 - Milk replacer

This HTS category, 2309.90.48.10, specifically covers "Milk replacer." These are formulated animal feeds designed to substitute for whole milk or milk-based colostrum, primarily for young animals such as calves, piglets, or lamb, during their early stages of development. The primary characteristic is their composition, which aims to mimic the nutritional profile of milk, often containing significant proportions of milk-derived ingredients, fats, and protein sources suitable for young digestive systems.

Distinguishing this classification from its sibling, 2309.90.48.90 ("Other"), is crucial. While the sibling category encompasses a broader range of other animal feeds containing milk or milk derivatives that do not specifically fit the definition of a milk replacer, this category is precisely for products formulated and marketed as direct replacements for milk. This distinction is based on the intended use and formulation designed to support the complete nutritional needs of young mammals transitioning away from maternal milk.

As this node is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories to introduce. Therefore, classification under 2309.90.48.10 relies on a thorough examination of the product's composition and its intended application as a complete milk substitute for young animals, differentiating it from general milk-derivative based animal feeds.