HS Code for Animal bladders

HS code 0504.00 is the specific classification for animal bladders, guts, and stomachs. This heading is unique because it includes these organs whether they are intended for human consumption or industrial use, such as the production of natural sausage casings. The classification applies to whole organs or pieces thereof. The preservation methods allowed under this code include fresh, chilled, frozen, salted, in brine, dried, or smoked. It excludes fish bladders, which are classified under 0511. The primary factor for classification here is the anatomical origin of the product. Even if the bladders are cleaned and scraped for use in the food industry, they remain under 0504.00 as long as they have not been further prepared into finished articles. This code is essential for the international trade of natural casings used in the meat industry and for certain industrial applications like the manufacture of musical instrument strings or surgical sutures.

Products Included

• Dried pig bladders
• Salted beef bladders
• Fresh sheep bladders
• Pieces of animal stomachs (tripe)
• Natural sausage casings made from bladders

Common Misclassification

Animal bladders are frequently misclassified under HS code 0511.99, which is the general "other" category for animal products. However, 0504.00 is a specific heading that takes precedence for guts, bladders, and stomachs. Another common mistake is classifying processed casings under 3917.10. While 3917.10 covers artificial guts (sausage casings) made of hardened protein or cellulosic materials, natural bladders and guts must remain in 0504.00. Finally, fish bladders (maw) are often incorrectly placed here; they should be classified under 0511.91 as fish products.

FAQ

What is the HS code for animal bladders?

The HS code for animal bladders (other than fish) is 0504.00, regardless of whether they are fresh, salted, or dried.

Are natural sausage casings classified under this code?

Yes, natural sausage casings made from animal bladders or guts are classified under HS code 0504.00.