HS Code for Hydrogenated microbial oil

Hydrogenated microbial oil is classified under HS code 1516.30. This code was introduced in recent updates to the Harmonized System to account for the growing industry of oils derived from microorganisms such as algae, bacteria, and fungi. Like animal and vegetable oils, microbial oils can undergo hydrogenation to alter their physical properties, such as turning a liquid oil into a solid fat. Heading 1516 covers fats and oils that are partly or wholly hydrogenated, inter-esterified, re-esterified, or elaidinised. The sub-heading 1516.30 specifically isolates microbial sources from traditional animal (1516.10) or vegetable (1516.20) sources. This classification is essential for tracking the trade of sustainable and bio-engineered alternatives to traditional fats. The product must not be further prepared (e.g., emulsified or flavored) to remain under this code; otherwise, it would likely fall under heading 1517 as an edible mixture.

Products Included

• Hydrogenated algal oil
• Hydrogenated fungal fats
• Inter-esterified microbial oils
• Chemically modified bacterial lipids
• Wholly hydrogenated microbial oil fractions

Common Misclassification

Microbial oils are frequently misclassified under HS code 1516.20, which is strictly for vegetable oils. Because algae are often perceived as plants, traders may mistakenly use the vegetable oil code. Additionally, crude microbial oils (not hydrogenated) should be classified under 1512, 1515, or other specific headings depending on the organism, rather than 1516.30.

FAQ

What is the HS code for hydrogenated microbial oil?

The correct HS code is 1516.30, which covers microbial fats and oils that have been chemically modified by hydrogenation.

Why is there a specific code for microbial oil?

The HS system was updated to 1516.30 to distinguish biotechnological products from traditional agricultural products, allowing for better statistical tracking and regulation.