HS Code for Refined flaxseed oil

Refined flaxseed oil, also known as linseed oil, is classified under HS code 1515.19. Chapter 15 of the Harmonized System covers animal or vegetable fats and oils and their cleavage products. Heading 15.15 is a residual heading for other fixed vegetable fats and oils (including jojoba oil) and their fractions, whether or not refined, but not chemically modified. Within this heading, 1515.11 is reserved for crude linseed oil, while 1515.19 covers 'other' linseed oil, which includes the refined, bleached, and deodorized (RBD) versions. The classification is driven by the botanical origin (Linum usitatissimum) and the degree of processing. It is essential that the oil has not been chemically modified, such as through hydrogenation or epoxidation, as such processes would shift the classification to heading 15.16 or 15.18. Refined flaxseed oil is used in both culinary applications for its high omega-3 content and in industrial applications like paint and varnish manufacturing. The 'other than crude' designation in 1515.19 ensures that any oil that has undergone purification steps beyond simple extraction is correctly categorized.

Products Included

• Refined linseed oil (flaxseed oil)
• Bleached and deodorized flaxseed oil
• Edible refined flaxseed oil
• Industrial grade refined linseed oil

Common Misclassification

Refined flaxseed oil (1515.19) is frequently confused with crude flaxseed oil (1515.11). Crude oil is the direct result of pressing or solvent extraction and contains impurities that are removed during the refining process. Another major area of misclassification involves heading 15.18. If the flaxseed oil has been 'boiled' or otherwise chemically modified (e.g., polymerized or oxidized) to act as a drying oil in paints, it must be classified under 1518.00. Furthermore, if the flaxseed oil has been hydrogenated to change its melting point, it falls under heading 15.16. Importers must also ensure the oil is not a blend; mixtures of flaxseed oil with other vegetable oils are generally classified under heading 15.17 as edible mixtures or preparations.

FAQ

What is the HS code for refined flaxseed oil?

Refined flaxseed oil (linseed oil) that has not been chemically modified is classified under HS code 1515.19.

Is boiled linseed oil classified under 1515.19?

No, boiled or chemically modified linseed oil is classified under HS code 1518.00.