HS Code for Linseed meal

Linseed meal is classified under HS code 2306.20 because it represents the solid residue remaining after the extraction of oil from flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum). According to the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) and the Explanatory Notes to Chapter 23, this heading covers oil-cake and other solid residues, whether or not ground or in the form of pellets, resulting from the extraction of vegetable fats or oils. The classification is determined by the fact that the product is a byproduct of the oil extraction process rather than the whole seed itself. If the seeds were merely crushed without oil extraction, they would remain in Chapter 12. The residue in 2306.20 is primarily used in animal feed due to its high protein and fiber content. It is essential to distinguish between the mechanical expeller process and solvent extraction, although both resulting residues fall under this code. The classification remains consistent regardless of whether the meal is further processed into pellets for easier transport and handling. The technical definition requires that the oil content has been significantly reduced through industrial processing, leaving a nutrient-dense cake that is subsequently ground into meal.

Products Included

• Linseed oil-cake
• Ground linseed meal
• Linseed pellets for animal feed
• Solvent-extracted linseed residues
• Expeller-pressed linseed cake

Common Misclassification

Linseed meal is frequently confused with whole or crushed flaxseeds under HS code 1204.00. The distinction lies in whether the oil has been extracted; 1204.00 is for the oilseeds themselves, while 2306.20 is for the residue after extraction. Another common error is using HS code 2309.90, which covers prepared animal fodder. While linseed meal is an ingredient in animal feed, it belongs in 2306.20 if it is a pure residue without added substances.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Linseed meal?

The specific HS code for linseed meal is 2306.20, which covers oil-cake and other solid residues resulting from the extraction of linseed oils.

Does the extraction method change the HS code?

No, whether the oil is removed via solvent extraction or mechanical pressure (expeller), the resulting solid residue remains classified under 2306.20.