HS Code for Soybean oil cake

Soybean oil cake and other solid residues resulting from the extraction of soybean oil are classified under HS code 2304.00. This classification is part of Chapter 23, which includes residues and waste from the food industries and prepared animal fodder. The extraction process, whether by pressure or solvent, leaves behind a protein-rich solid material. This material is typically ground into meal or formed into pellets for use in animal feed. The Harmonized System specifies that heading 2304 covers these residues regardless of whether they are ground or in pellet form. The classification is determined by the fact that the product is a byproduct of oil extraction and is primarily used for animal nutrition. It must not have been further processed into highly refined protein isolates, as that would change the classification to Chapter 21.

Products Included

• Soybean meal (defatted)
• Soybean oil cake (expeller or solvent extracted)
• Soybean flakes (after oil extraction)
• Soybean pellets for animal feed
• De-hulled soybean meal

Common Misclassification

Soybean oil cake is often confused with HS code 1201.90, which covers whole or broken soybeans. The key difference is that 2304.00 applies only after the oil has been extracted. If the beans are simply crushed but still contain their original oil content, they remain in 1201. Another common misclassification is with HS code 2302, which covers bran, sharps, and other residues from the sifting or milling of cereals or leguminous plants. However, because soybean residues are specifically named in heading 2304, that heading takes precedence over the more general 2302.

FAQ

What is the HS code for soybean meal?

Soybean meal, which is a residue of oil extraction, is classified under HS code 2304.00.

Does this code include whole soybeans?

No, whole soybeans are classified under heading 1201. HS code 2304.00 only applies to the solid residue left after oil has been removed.