4819.10.00.20 - Sanitary food and beverage containers

This HTS category, 4819.10.00.20, specifically covers cartons, boxes, and cases manufactured from corrugated paper or paperboard that are designed and intended for the sanitary packaging of food and beverages. The emphasis is on containers that meet specific hygienic standards suitable for direct contact with foodstuffs or drinkable liquids, preventing contamination and ensuring product integrity during transport and storage. Examples include corrugated boxes for produce, dairy products, beverages, and other food items where sanitary requirements are paramount.

Within the broader grouping of "Cartons, boxes and cases, of corrugated paper or paperboard," this subheading is distinguished from its sibling category, 4819.10.00.40 "Other," by its specialized application. While "Other" would encompass corrugated boxes and cases used for general merchandise, industrial goods, or any non-food/beverage related packaging, this subheading is narrowly focused on those intended for sanitary food and beverage containment. The critical differentiator lies in the intended use and the inherent sanitary properties required for such packaging.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS classification system, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, the classification decision hinges on accurately identifying the material (corrugated paper or paperboard) and the intended use (sanitary food and beverage containers). Any corrugated paper or paperboard box or case that is not specifically designed or intended for sanitary food and beverage packaging would fall under the "Other" subheading at this level.