3821.00.00.90 - Other

This HTS category, 3821.00.00.90, encompasses "Other" prepared culture media that do not fall under the more specific headings for viral transport media. Essentially, it covers a broad range of specialized media designed for the laboratory cultivation and growth of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, etc.), as well as the development and maintenance of plant, human, or animal cells in vitro. These media are crucial for various scientific, diagnostic, and research applications, providing the necessary nutrients, growth factors, and environmental conditions for biological entities to thrive outside their natural host or environment.

The defining characteristic of this residual category is its exclusion of viral transport media, which are specifically designed for the collection and preservation of viral samples for diagnostic testing. Unlike viral transport media, the culture media classified here are intended for actively growing and multiplying biological specimens rather than merely preserving them during transit. The "Other" designation signifies that any prepared culture medium not specifically enumerated elsewhere within HTS Chapter 38 would likely be classified here, provided it meets the general definition of a prepared culture medium.

Given that this is a leaf node, there are no subcategories to introduce. Therefore, the focus for classification under 3821.00.00.90 relies heavily on the specific formulation, intended use, and the biological entities it is designed to support. For instance, this category would include nutrient broths for bacterial growth, agar plates containing selective agents for isolating specific microorganisms, or specialized media for maintaining cell lines in research laboratories. The absence of further subdivisions necessitates a careful examination of the product's composition and purpose to ensure accurate classification.