HS Code for Refined corn oil

Refined corn oil, also known as maize oil, is classified under HS code 1515.29. This classification is found in Chapter 15, which deals with animal or vegetable fats and oils. Heading 1515 is a residual heading for "other" fixed vegetable fats and oils that are not specified in the more specific headings of the chapter (such as soy, peanut, or olive oil). Maize oil is specifically identified within this heading. The classification is split between crude maize oil (1515.21) and refined maize oil (1515.29). Refined corn oil is obtained by treating the crude oil extracted from the germ of the maize grain. The refining process removes impurities, free fatty acids, and unsaponifiable matter, resulting in a clear, stable oil suitable for high-heat cooking and industrial applications. To remain under 1515.29, the oil must not be chemically modified, though it can be fractionated into liquid and solid components through physical means.

Products Included

• Refined maize (corn) oil
• RBD corn oil for culinary use
• Refined corn oil fractions
• Pure corn oil for industrial lubricants
• Bottled refined corn oil for retail sale

Common Misclassification

Refined corn oil is often misclassified as crude corn oil, which falls under HS code 1515.21. The distinction is based on the presence of refining treatments; crude oil is typically darker and contains more sediment. Another common misclassification occurs when corn oil is part of a vegetable oil blend. If corn oil is mixed with other oils (like soybean or sunflower oil), the resulting product is classified under HS code 1517.90 as an edible mixture. Furthermore, residues from the corn oil extraction process, such as oilcake, are not classified here but under HS code 2303.10. If the oil has been hydrogenated to create a solid fat, it moves to HS code 1516.20.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Refined corn oil?

Refined corn oil and its fractions are classified under HS code 1515.29.

Is corn oil used for biodiesel classified under this code?

If the product is pure refined corn oil intended for biodiesel production, it remains under 1515.29. However, if it has been converted into fatty acid methyl esters (biodiesel), it is classified under 3826.00.