HS Code for Acid treated bones

Acid treated bones, also known as ossein, are classified under HS code 0506.10. This classification falls within Chapter 5, which covers products of animal origin not elsewhere specified or included. Heading 0506 specifically includes bones and horn-cores, unworked, defatted, simply prepared (but not cut to shape), degelatinized, or treated with acid. The sub-heading 0506.10 is dedicated to ossein and bones treated with acid. This process involves treating bones with dilute hydrochloric acid to remove the mineral matter, primarily calcium phosphates, leaving behind the organic matrix known as collagen. This material is primarily used as an intermediate in the production of high-quality gelatin and bone glue. The classification is straightforward as it describes the physical state and the specific chemical treatment the animal product has undergone. It is important to note that the bones must not be worked beyond simple preparation; if they are cut to specific shapes or further manufactured, they would likely fall under Chapter 96 for worked bone articles. The treatment with acid is a defining characteristic that separates this product from standard bone meal or crushed bones used in fertilizers.

Products Included

• Ossein (acid-treated bone collagen)
• Bones treated with hydrochloric acid
• Degelatinized bones (acid-treated)
• Acid-treated bone scrap for gelatin production
• Demineralized bone matrix (bulk)

Common Misclassification

Acid treated bones are often confused with HS code 0506.90, which covers "other" bones and horn-cores that have not been treated with acid, such as simple crushed bone or defatted bone. Another common misclassification is HS code 3503.00, which is the code for finished gelatin. While ossein is the precursor to gelatin, it remains in Chapter 5 until it has been further processed into the protein substance itself. Additionally, bone meal used as fertilizer may be misclassified under 3101.00.

FAQ

What is the HS code for acid treated bones?

The HS code for acid treated bones, specifically ossein, is 0506.10.

What is the primary use of acid treated bones?

Acid treated bones are primarily used as the raw material for the manufacture of gelatin, which is used in food, pharmaceutical, and photographic industries.