HS 210420 Homogenised composite food preparations
Quick Answer: HS code 210420 covers "Homogenised composite food preparations," which are ready-to-eat, finely blended food mixtures, often for infants or specific dietary needs. These preparations typically contain multiple ingredients like fruits, vegetables, meat, or cereals, processed to a uniform consistency. Importers should note varying duty rates: the UK generally applies a 14.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU's Common Customs Tariff is approximately 14.10% ad valorem. In the US, rates range from 6.4% to 20% ad valorem, with many products eligible for duty-free entry under various Free Trade Agreements (e.g., A, AU, CL, KR, SG). Careful classification and origin determination are crucial to leverage preferential tariffs and ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2104200000 | 14.00 % | — | — |
| 2104200090 | 14.00 % | — | — |
| 2104200011 | 14.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2104200000 | 14.10 % | — | — |
| 2104200011 | 14.10 % | — | — |
| 2104200090 | 14.10 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 210420 | — | — | [] |
| 2104205000 | 6.4% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2104201000 | 2.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 2104.20?
Imports of Homogenised composite food preparations may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 14 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 210420 cover?
This subheading covers "Homogenised composite food preparations," which are defined by the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes (HSEN) to Heading 2104 as preparations consisting of a finely homogenised mixture of several basic ingredients, such as meat, fish, vegetables, fruit, or other foodstuffs, prepared for use as infant food or for dietetic purposes. These preparations are typically put up for retail sale in containers of a net weight not exceeding 250 g. The homogenisation process ensures a uniform consistency, making them suitable for specific dietary needs, as further detailed in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC classifications for this specific subheading.
What falls outside HS 210420?
The following products are excluded from HS 210420: preparations that, although homogenised, consist of only a single ingredient (e.g., homogenised vegetables or fruits) which are classified in their respective chapters (e.g., Chapter 7 for vegetables, Chapter 8 for fruits). Additionally, preparations not put up for retail sale in containers of a net weight not exceeding 250 g, even if homogenised and composite, would generally be excluded and classified elsewhere based on their primary ingredients or intended use. For example, larger bulk quantities of composite food preparations, even if suitable for infants, would typically fall under other subheadings within Chapter 21 or other relevant chapters.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 210420?
A common error is misclassifying single-ingredient homogenised foods, such as pureed carrots or apples, into HS 210420. These items, despite being homogenised and often marketed for infants, are not "composite" and should be classified under their respective fruit or vegetable headings (e.g., Chapter 7 or 8). Another frequent mistake involves overlooking the packaging size criterion; composite preparations exceeding 250 g net weight per container, even if otherwise meeting the description, are generally excluded from this specific subheading. Proper application of General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which states that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial to avoid these errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 210420?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 210420 involves a meticulous review of the product's composition, preparation method, and packaging. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm that the product is a "composite" preparation, meaning it contains a mixture of several basic food ingredients. Secondly, verify that it has undergone a "homogenisation" process, resulting in a uniform consistency. Crucially, ensure the product is put up for retail sale in containers with a net weight not exceeding 250 g. Consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes for Heading 2104, along with the specific national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, will provide definitive guidance and prevent misclassification, ensuring compliance with international trade regulations.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the import duty rate for HS code 2104.20 (Homogenised composite food preparations) into the United States?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for products classified under HTSUS subheading 2104.20.00.00 (Homogenized composite food preparations) when imported into the United States is 14.00% ad valorem. However, many trade agreements offer preferential duty treatment. For example, imports from countries with which the U.S. has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) may be eligible for a 'Free' duty rate, provided all rules of origin are met. This includes imports from Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG). Importers should consult the latest HTSUS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States) via the USITC website for the most current and specific rates applicable to their country of origin.
What are the key classification criteria for 'Homogenised composite food preparations' under HS 2104.20?
HS code 2104.20 covers 'Homogenised composite food preparations'. The primary criteria for classification under this subheading are that the preparations must be 'homogenised' and 'composite'. 'Homogenised' implies that the ingredients have been reduced to a uniform consistency, often to facilitate consumption by infants or for dietary purposes. 'Composite' means they consist of more than one foodstuff mixed together (e.g., a blend of vegetables, meat, and cereals). These preparations are typically put up for retail sale as infant food or dietetic foods. Preparations that are merely mixed but not homogenised, or consist of a single foodstuff (e.g., homogenised vegetables of Chapter 20), would be excluded. Reference to the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System for Chapter 21, specifically heading 21.04, provides further interpretative guidance from the World Customs Organization (WCO).
What documentation is typically required for importing products classified under HS 2104.20?
Standard import documentation for HS 2104.20 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a customs declaration. For food products, additional requirements are common. In the U.S., imports are subject to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, requiring prior notice of arrival and potentially specific labeling compliance. If claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement, a Certificate of Origin or similar declaration proving the goods meet the relevant rules of origin is mandatory. Importers should also be prepared for potential sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) controls, depending on the ingredients and country of origin. It is advisable to consult with a licensed customs broker or the relevant government agencies (e.g., FDA, USDA in the US) prior to importation.
How do EU TARIC and UK Trade Tariff rates compare for HS 2104.20?
For HS code 2104.20, the standard MFN duty rate within the European Union (EU) via the TARIC system is typically 14.10% ad valorem. Similarly, the UK Global Tariff (UKGT) for imports into the United Kingdom also lists a standard MFN duty rate of 14.10% ad valorem. Both the EU and UK offer extensive preferential arrangements under various trade agreements (e.g., GSP, FTAs). For instance, imports from certain developing countries may benefit from reduced or zero duties under the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP). Specific duty rates can vary significantly based on the country of origin and applicable trade agreements. Importers should always verify the exact duty rate and any additional duties (e.g., agricultural components) by consulting the official EU TARIC database or the UK Trade Tariff website, respectively, for the most up-to-date information.
Are there any specific trade agreements that offer 'Free' duty rates for HS 2104.20 into the US?
Yes, several U.S. Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) provide for 'Free' duty rates for products classified under HTSUS 2104.20.00.00, provided the goods meet the specific rules of origin outlined in each agreement. Key FTAs that typically grant duty-free access for this category include agreements with Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG). To claim these preferential rates, importers must ensure they have the necessary documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to substantiate the claim. Failure to meet origin requirements will result in the application of the MFN duty rate of 14.00% ad valorem.