HS Code for Prepared mollusc meals

The classification of prepared mollusc meals under HS code 1605.59 is determined by the degree of processing and the primary ingredient's weight. Chapter 16 covers preparations of meat, fish, crustaceans, and molluscs. Specifically, heading 1605 is reserved for aquatic invertebrates that have been prepared or preserved beyond the simple processes allowed in Chapter 03, such as chilling, freezing, or simple drying. The subheading 1605.59 acts as a residual category for molluscs that are not specifically listed in other subheadings of 1605.5, such as oysters, scallops, or mussels. For a product to fall under 1605.59 as a prepared meal, the mollusc component must constitute the essential character of the dish. This typically involves complex culinary preparations, such as cooking with sauces, mixing with vegetables, or forming into sausages and pastes. If the preparation is a complete meal where the mollusc is the dominant ingredient by weight and value, it remains in this classification. This code is essential for customs authorities to distinguish between raw seafood and value-added food products.

Products Included

• Canned snail preparations (escargot) in butter or sauce
• Mollusc-based sausages and seafood patties
• Frozen prepared meals where molluscs are the primary protein
• Mollusc pastes and spreads
• Cooked octopus or squid prepared with seasonings and oil

Common Misclassification

A frequent error is classifying these products under HS code 0307, which is strictly for live, fresh, chilled, frozen, or dried molluscs without further preparation. Another common mistake involves HS code 1902, which covers pasta products. If a meal contains molluscs but the pasta is the predominant component by weight, it must be classified under 1902. Additionally, soups and broths containing molluscs should be classified under HS code 2104.10 rather than 1605.59.

FAQ

What is the HS code for prepared mollusc meals?

The HS code for prepared mollusc meals not elsewhere specified is 1605.59.

How does 1605.59 differ from 0307?

HS code 0307 is for raw or minimally processed molluscs, while 1605.59 is for molluscs that have been cooked, prepared into meals, or preserved in ways that go beyond simple freezing or drying.