HS Code Subheading

Animal products; guts, bladders and stomachs of animals (other than fish), whole and pieces thereof, fresh, chilled, frozen, salted, in brine, dried or smoked

0504.00 Subheading
Section I — live animals; animal products

About HS Code 050400

This category encompasses guts, bladders, and stomachs of animals (excluding fish), in various preserved forms such as fresh, chilled, frozen, salted, in brine, dried, or smoked. These animal by-products are primarily traded for use as natural sausage casings in the food industry, but also find niche applications. Major importers are food processing companies, particularly in countries with strong traditions of sausage production. Exporters are typically large meat-producing nations with efficient slaughterhouse operations. Key aspects of this trade include stringent hygiene standards, effective preservation methods to maintain quality, and compliance with international food safety regulations. The material is often traded in bulk, requiring careful handling and storage.

Products Under This Code

Natural hog casings, sheep casings, beef casings, tripe (for food processing), animal bladders (for specific uses), salted guts

Real World Examples

Natural sausage casings used by artisanal butchers, large-scale food processors like Johnsonville, specific animal bladders for traditional crafts

Common Misclassification

This code can be confused with 0206 (edible offal) if the parts are not specifically prepared as guts/bladders, or 0506 (bones) if other animal parts are included. The key is the specific anatomical parts and their preparation.

Products Classified Under 0504.00

Industry

This code belongs to the Agriculture & Live Animals industry.

Trade Overview

Germany and the USA are significant importers of natural casings, while China and Brazil are major exporters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 050400?

HS code 050400 covers: Animal products; guts, bladders and stomachs of animals (other than fish), whole and pieces thereof, fresh, chilled, frozen, salted, in brine, dried or smoked. This category encompasses guts, bladders, and stomachs of animals (excluding fish), in various preserved forms such as fresh, chilled, frozen, salted, in brine, dried, or smoked. These animal by-products are primarily traded for use as natural sausage casings in the food industry, but also find niche applications. Major importers are food processing companies, particularly in countries with strong traditions of sausage production. Exporters are typically large meat-producing nations with efficient slaughterhouse operations. Key aspects of this trade include stringent hygiene standards, effective preservation methods to maintain quality, and compliance with international food safety regulations. The material is often traded in bulk, requiring careful handling and storage.

What products fall under HS code 050400?

Natural hog casings, sheep casings, beef casings, tripe (for food processing), animal bladders (for specific uses), salted guts

What are common misclassifications for HS code 050400?

This code can be confused with 0206 (edible offal) if the parts are not specifically prepared as guts/bladders, or 0506 (bones) if other animal parts are included. The key is the specific anatomical parts and their preparation.

How is HS code 050400 structured?

HS code 050400 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (05) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (04) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (00) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.