HS Code for Cornmeal

Cornmeal is classified under HS code 1103.13, which covers cereal groats and meal of maize (corn). This classification is strictly governed by the technical specifications outlined in Chapter 11 of the Harmonized System. Specifically, Note 2 to Chapter 11 defines "meal" based on its ability to pass through a standard wire cloth sieve. For maize products to qualify as meal under heading 1103, at least 95% by weight must pass through a sieve with an aperture of 2.0 mm. Cornmeal is a product of the primary milling process where the grain is fragmented but remains coarser than flour. Under GRI 1, the heading 1103 is the most specific for groats and meal. This code is used for various types of cornmeal, including yellow, white, and blue varieties, provided they have not been further prepared or mixed with other ingredients to form a finished food preparation.

Products Included

• Yellow cornmeal
• White cornmeal
• Coarse maize meal
• Stone-ground cornmeal
• Unprocessed polenta meal
• Maize groats for human consumption

Common Misclassification

Cornmeal is often confused with maize flour, which is classified under HS code 1102.20. The difference is purely based on particle size; flour is finer and must pass through a 0.63 mm sieve. Additionally, cornmeal that has been precooked or otherwise prepared may be misclassified here when it should actually fall under heading 1904 as a prepared cereal food. Another potential error is HS code 1104.23, which covers other worked grains (e.g., pearled or kibbled), but 1103.13 is more specific for meal.

FAQ

What is the HS code for cornmeal?

The standard HS code for cornmeal (maize meal) is 1103.13.

Is polenta classified under the same HS code as cornmeal?

If the polenta is simply plain, coarsely ground cornmeal, it is classified under 1103.13. However, if it is sold as a ready-to-eat prepared dish, it may fall under Chapter 19.