HS Code for Cocoa husks

Cocoa husks, shells, and skins are classified under HS code 1802.00. This is a single-level heading that specifically covers the waste products generated during the processing of cocoa beans. When cocoa beans are roasted and cracked, the outer shell or husk is separated from the inner nib. This husk, along with the thin silver skin and any other residual waste from the winnowing process, is captured by this code. The classification is straightforward because heading 1802 is dedicated exclusively to these by-products. Even if these husks are subsequently ground into a fine powder for use in animal feed, as a source of dietary fiber in food processing, or as garden mulch, they remain classified here because the heading specifically mentions "waste." This follows GRI 1, where the heading text provides the primary basis for classification. The absence of subheadings under 1802 means that all forms of cocoa shell waste, regardless of their intended end-use or physical state (whole or crushed), are grouped together.

Products Included

• Cocoa bean shells
• Outer cocoa husks
• Thin inner cocoa skins (silverskins)
• Cocoa dust and fines from winnowing

Common Misclassification

Cocoa husks are sometimes misclassified under 1801.00, which is reserved for whole or broken cocoa beans. However, 1801.00 is intended for the primary product (the bean and nib), whereas 1802.00 is for the waste material. They might also be confused with 2308.00 (vegetable materials for animal feed), but the specificity of heading 1802 for cocoa waste takes precedence.

FAQ

What is the HS code for cocoa husks?

The HS code for cocoa husks, shells, and skins is 1802.00.

Can cocoa husks be classified as fertilizer?

While they are used as mulch or fertilizer, they are still classified under 1802.00 because the HS nomenclature prioritizes the material origin (cocoa waste) over the end-use.