HS Code for Animal guts

HS code 050400 is assigned to guts, bladders, and stomachs of animals, excluding those from fish. This classification covers these animal products in various states of preservation, including fresh, chilled, frozen, salted, in brine, dried, or smoked, whether whole or in pieces. These items are typically processed for industrial applications, such as the manufacture of sausage casings, or for pharmaceutical purposes. The exclusion of fish products is a key delineator, as fish guts and similar products are generally classified under Chapter 3. This heading specifically addresses non-edible or specially prepared animal organs that are not considered "meat and edible meat offal" of Chapter 2, focusing on their use as raw materials for further processing.

Products Included

• Hog casings (intestines used for sausages)
• Sheep casings
• Bovine stomachs (tripe), if intended for industrial use or further processing beyond direct edible meat offal
• Animal bladders, typically used for sausage making or as containers
• Dried animal intestines for various industrial applications.

Common Misclassification

This code is frequently confused with products classified under Chapter 2, "Meat and edible meat offal," particularly HS 0206, which covers edible offal of bovine, swine, sheep, goats, horses, asses, mules, or hinnies. The distinction lies in the primary intended use and the nature of the product; 050400 generally covers guts, bladders, and stomachs used for casings or other industrial purposes, even if technically edible, whereas 0206 is for offal primarily intended for direct human consumption as meat. Fish guts and similar products are classified under Chapter 3, specifically HS 0305 for dried, salted or in brine fish, or other headings depending on their preparation.

FAQ

What is the HS code for animal guts?

The HS code for guts, bladders, and stomachs of animals (other than fish), in various preserved states, is 050400.

Are fish guts classified under HS 050400?

No, HS 050400 explicitly excludes guts, bladders, and stomachs of fish. Fish products are generally classified under Chapter 3 of the Harmonized System.