HS Code for Honey

Natural honey is classified under HS code 0409.00. This code is part of Chapter 4, which covers dairy produce, birds' eggs, and natural products of animal origin not elsewhere specified. Honey is defined as the natural sweet substance produced by honeybees (Apis mellifera) or other bees from the nectar of plants or from secretions of living parts of plants. The classification 0409.00 is a "single-dash" heading in many tariffs, meaning it covers the product regardless of its physical state—whether it is in the comb, centrifuged, or in chunks. It also includes honey that has been heated to facilitate handling or to destroy yeasts, provided the essential character of natural honey is maintained and no other substances (like sugar or flavorings) have been added in quantities that change its nature.

Products Included

• Centrifuged natural honey
• Comb honey
• Wild honey
• Monofloral honey (e.g., Manuka, Acacia)
• Polyfloral or wildflower honey

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification for honey occurs with HS code 1702.90, which covers artificial honey and mixtures of natural and artificial honey. If natural honey is blended with corn syrup, cane sugar, or other sweeteners, it loses its eligibility for 0409.00. Another common error involves HS code 0410.00, which covers edible products of animal origin not elsewhere specified, such as royal jelly or propolis. While these are bee-related, they are not honey. Additionally, honey-based food preparations that contain added flavors, nuts, or fruit are often classified under HS code 2106.90 as food preparations not elsewhere specified.

FAQ

What is the HS code for natural honey?

The HS code for natural honey is 0409.00, covering all types of natural honey produced by bees.

Does 0409.00 include honey with added flavors?

No, honey with added flavorings or other ingredients is generally classified under HS code 2106 as a food preparation, rather than natural honey.