HS Code for Wheat starch

Wheat starch is classified under HS code 1108.11. This classification falls within Chapter 11, which covers products of the milling industry, malt, starches, inulin, and wheat gluten. Heading 1108 is the specific category for starches and inulin. Wheat starch is produced by separating the starch granules from the protein (gluten) and fiber components of the wheat kernel. This is typically achieved through a wet-milling process where the wheat is soaked and the starch is washed out. The resulting product is a fine, white powder used extensively in both food and industrial applications. Because the product is a primary starch that has not been chemically modified, esterified, or converted into a more complex substance like dextrin, it remains within the 1108 heading. Subheading 1108.11 provides the most specific designation for starch derived specifically from the wheat plant. The classification is strictly based on the botanical origin of the starch and its unmodified chemical state at the time of entry.

Products Included

• Native wheat starch
• Unmodified wheat starch powder
• Food-grade wheat starch
• Industrial-grade wheat starch
• Wheat starch used as a thickener

Common Misclassification

Wheat starch is often confused with wheat flour (1101.00); however, starch is a separated component while flour contains the whole endosperm. More critically, modified wheat starches (e.g., pre-gelatinized or etherified) are classified under 3505.10. If the product contains a high percentage of protein (gluten), it may be classified as wheat gluten under 1109.00. Corn starch (1108.12) and potato starch (1108.13) are also frequent points of confusion.

FAQ

What is the HS code for wheat starch?

The HS code for pure, unmodified wheat starch is 1108.11.

Is wheat gluten classified with wheat starch?

No, wheat gluten is classified separately under HS code 1109.00, even though they are often produced during the same milling process.