HS Code for Quinoa

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) is classified under HS code 1008.50. This classification is situated within Chapter 10, which covers cereals. Although quinoa is botanically a pseudocereal rather than a true cereal grain like wheat or rice, the Harmonized System treats it as a cereal for trade purposes. In the 2012 and 2017 revisions of the HS nomenclature, quinoa was granted its own specific subheading (1008.50) to better track its increasing global trade volume. The classification applies to the grain in its raw state. This includes quinoa that has had the bitter saponin coating removed through washing or mechanical abrasion, as this process is considered a standard treatment for making the grain edible and does not constitute "processing" into a different product category.

Products Included

• Raw white, red, and black quinoa grains
• Saponin-free quinoa grains
• Organic quinoa in bulk or retail packaging
• Polished quinoa grains

Common Misclassification

Quinoa is frequently misclassified under 1008.90, which is the residual category for "other cereals." Before the specific 1008.50 code was widely adopted, this was common, but it is now an error. Another frequent mistake is classifying quinoa under heading 1104 if it has been further processed, such as being rolled, flaked, or pearled. If the quinoa is ground into flour, it must be classified under heading 1102 (Cereal flours). Additionally, pre-cooked or puffed quinoa products ready for consumption are classified under heading 1904, which covers prepared foods obtained by the swelling or roasting of cereals.

FAQ

What is the HS code for quinoa?

The international HS code for quinoa is 1008.50.

Is quinoa flour classified under the same code?

No, quinoa flour is classified under HS code 1102.90 as a cereal flour.