HS Code for Kefir
Kefir is classified under HS code 0403.90, which falls under Chapter 4 of the Harmonized System, covering dairy produce, birds' eggs, and natural honey. Heading 0403 is specifically designated for buttermilk, curdled milk and cream, yogurt, kephir, and other fermented or acidified milk and cream. While yogurt is specifically partitioned into subheadings 0403.10 and 0403.20, kefir is categorized under the residual subheading 0403.90 for "other" fermented dairy products. This classification is determined by the biological nature of the product, which is produced through the action of kefir grains (a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast) on milk. The classification remains valid even if the kefir has been concentrated or contains added sugar, sweetening matter, flavoring, fruit, nuts, or cocoa, provided that the dairy base retains the essential character of the product. This follows General Interpretative Rule 1 and the specific notes for Chapter 4, which allow for these additions in fermented dairy products without moving them to Chapter 21 or 22.
Products Included
- Liquid dairy kefir
- Flavored kefir drinks
- Kefir with added fruit or nuts
- Concentrated kefir paste
- Fermented milk products other than yogurt
Common Misclassification
Kefir is frequently misclassified under HS code 0403.10, which is strictly reserved for yogurt. While similar, the fermentation agents differ. Another common error is using HS code 2202.99 for non-alcoholic beverages. If the product is a water-based kefir (made with sugar water instead of milk), it must be classified in Chapter 22. Dairy-based kefir remains in 0403.90 unless it is diluted to the point where it loses the character of a dairy product.
FAQ
What is the HS code for kefir?
The HS code for dairy-based kefir is 0403.90, covering fermented or acidified milk products other than yogurt.
One more relevant question
Is flavored kefir classified differently? No, kefir containing fruit, nuts, cocoa, or flavorings remains under HS code 0403.90 as long as it maintains its character as a fermented dairy product.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Kefir?
The HS code for Kefir is 040390 (Dairy produce; buttermilk, curdled milk or cream, kephir, fermented or acidified milk or cream, whether or not concentrated or containing added sweetening, flavouring, fruit, nuts or cocoa (excluding yoghurt)).
How do I classify Kefir for customs?
Kefir is classified under HS code 040390 — Dairy produce; buttermilk, curdled milk or cream, kephir, fermented or acidified milk or cream, whether or not concentrated or containing added sweetening, flavouring, fruit, nuts or cocoa (excluding yoghurt). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Kefir the same in all countries?
The base HS code 040390 for Kefir is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.