HS Code for Dairy spreads

Dairy spreads are classified under HS code 0405.20. Chapter 04 of the Harmonized System covers dairy produce, birds' eggs, natural honey, and edible products of animal origin. Heading 0405 specifically includes butter and other fats and oils derived from milk, as well as dairy spreads. To qualify for 0405.20, the product must be a spreadable emulsion of the water-in-oil type, containing milk fat as the only fat in the product. The milk fat content must be 39% or more but less than 80% by weight. This precise chemical and fat-content definition distinguishes dairy spreads from standard butter (which has a higher fat content) and from margarine (which contains vegetable fats). The classification also requires that the product remains spreadable at a temperature of 15 degrees Celsius. If the product contains any added fats other than milk fat, such as vegetable oils, it is excluded from this heading and must be classified elsewhere. This code is vital for trade statistics as it separates high-fat butter products from lower-fat spreadable alternatives.

Products Included

• Low-fat dairy spreads (39% to 79% milk fat)
• Spreadable dairy products with added herbs or spices
• Reduced-fat butter preparations
• Dairy-based pastes intended for bread application

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification is with HS code 1517.10 (margarine) or 1517.90 (other edible mixtures). These codes are used if the spread contains any vegetable fats. Another common error is using 0405.10, which is strictly for butter with a milk fat content of 80% or more. If the fat content falls below 39%, the product may be classified under 2106.90 as a food preparation not elsewhere specified.

FAQ

What is the HS code for dairy spreads?

The HS code for dairy spreads is 0405.20, provided the fat content is between 39% and 79% and consists solely of milk fat.

Can a spread with vegetable oil use this code?

No, if a spread contains any vegetable oil or fats not derived from milk, it must be classified under heading 1517, typically 1517.10 for margarine or 1517.90 for other spreads.