HS Code for Isinglass

Isinglass is a substance obtained from the dried swim bladders of fish, primarily sturgeon, though other species are also used. It is a form of collagen that has historically been used for the clarification or fining of beer and wine. In the Harmonized System (HS), isinglass is classified under heading 3503. This heading is dedicated to gelatin and its derivatives, isinglass, and other glues of animal origin. The classification logic rests on the chemical nature of the product; it is a proteinaceous substance derived from animal tissues. Unlike crude fish waste, isinglass has undergone a level of preparation—drying and sometimes mechanical processing—that aligns it with other refined animal proteins used for technical or food-processing purposes. It is distinct from casein glues (3501) and albumin (3502) due to its specific source and collagen structure. Even when presented in liquid or sheet form for industrial use, it remains within 3503.00 because the HS nomenclature groups these animal-derived clarifying agents together based on their chemical composition and functional properties.

Products Included

• Dried fish swim bladders prepared as isinglass
• Liquid isinglass finings for brewing
• Isinglass sheets for culinary clarification
• Isinglass flocculants used in winemaking

Common Misclassification

Isinglass is frequently misclassified under HS code 0511.91, which covers fish waste or products of fish. However, because isinglass is a prepared proteinaceous substance, heading 3503 is more specific. It is also sometimes confused with 3501 (casein) or 3504 (peptones), but these are derived from milk or different protein sources respectively.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Isinglass?

The HS code for isinglass is 3503.00, which covers gelatin, gelatin derivatives, and isinglass.

Is isinglass considered a food-grade product?

Yes, isinglass is widely used in the food and beverage industry as a clarifying agent, particularly in traditional brewing and winemaking processes.