HS Code for Raw shelled peanuts

Raw shelled peanuts are classified under HS code 1202.42. This classification is governed by the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), specifically focusing on the state of the product. Chapter 12 encompasses oil seeds and oleaginous fruits, miscellaneous grains, seeds, and fruit. Within this chapter, heading 1202 is dedicated to ground-nuts (peanuts), whether or not shelled or broken, provided they are not roasted or otherwise cooked. The subheading 1202.42 specifically identifies peanuts that have been removed from their outer shell but remain in their raw state. This includes peanuts that have undergone basic mechanical processing such as cleaning, grading, or sorting. It is important to note that the presence of the thin reddish skin (testa) does not disqualify the product from this code, nor does the removal of this skin (blanching), as long as no heat treatment or cooking process has been applied that would alter the chemical structure of the nut. The classification remains consistent regardless of whether the peanuts are intended for direct human consumption, oil extraction, or further industrial processing, provided they are not for use as seed.

Products Included

• Shelled raw peanuts
• Blanched raw peanuts (not cooked)
• Split shelled peanuts
• Raw ground-nuts without husks
• Graded raw peanut kernels

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification occurs with HS code 1202.41, which is reserved for peanuts that are still in their shell (inshell). Another common error is using HS code 2008.11, which covers peanuts that have been roasted, salted, or otherwise prepared or preserved. If the peanuts have undergone any form of heat treatment beyond simple drying, they must be moved to Chapter 20. Additionally, peanuts intended for sowing are classified under 1202.30.

FAQ

What is the HS code for raw shelled peanuts?

The HS code for raw shelled peanuts, not for seed and not roasted or cooked, is 1202.42.

Are blanched peanuts classified under this code?

Yes, blanched peanuts are classified under 1202.42 as long as the blanching process (removing the skin) did not involve roasting or cooking the nut.