HS 210610 Protein concentrates and textured protein substances

Quick Answer: HS code 210610 covers protein concentrates and textured protein substances, which are food preparations primarily derived from vegetable proteins (e.g., soy, pea) or milk proteins, processed to increase protein content or alter texture for use as food ingredients or meat substitutes. Importers should note varying duty rates: the UK applies rates like 12.00% or 0.00%, while the EU shows rates such as 12.80% or 0.00% plus an agricultural component (EA). The US generally applies a 6.4% ad valorem duty, with many preferential trade agreements (e.g., A, AU, CL, KR) offering duty-free entry. Careful classification is crucial due to the diverse product forms and potential for additional duties like the EU's EA.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2106100000 — — —
2106102020 12.00 % — —
2106102090 12.00 % — —
2106108031 0.00 % — —
2106108039 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2106102090 12.80 % — —
2106108031 0.00 % + EA — —
2106108040 0.00 % + EA — —
2106108071 0.00 % + EA — —
2106108079 0.00 % + EA — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2106100000 6.4% 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 2106.10?

Imports of Protein concentrates and textured protein substances 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 to Classify This HS Code?

What products does HS 210610 cover?

This subheading covers protein concentrates and textured protein substances, which are preparations primarily composed of protein, often derived from vegetable sources like soy, wheat, or peas, but can also include animal proteins. These products are typically used as food ingredients, nutritional supplements, or meat extenders/substitutes due to their high protein content and often altered texture. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2106 clarify that this heading encompasses food preparations not elsewhere specified or included, and subheading 210610 specifically targets these protein-rich formulations, as reflected in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system.

What falls outside HS 210610?

The following products are excluded from HS 210610: isolated proteins that are not yet "concentrates" or "textured substances" (e.g., pure protein isolates for laboratory use, typically in Chapter 35); protein flours, meals, and pellets fit for human consumption but not yet concentrated or textured (e.g., soy flour, classified in Chapter 12); and dietary supplements presented in measured doses, such as protein bars or ready-to-drink protein shakes, which are generally classified under other subheadings of 2106 or even Chapter 30 if they meet medicinal criteria. Furthermore, animal feed preparations containing protein, but not primarily for human consumption, would fall under Chapter 23.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 210610?

A common error is misclassifying simple protein isolates or flours under 210610 when they have not undergone the concentration or texturization processes that define this subheading. Importers sometimes overlook the distinction between a basic protein ingredient and a "concentrate" or "textured substance" as understood by the WCO. Another frequent mistake involves classifying finished food preparations containing protein, such as protein-fortified cereals or snack foods, within 210610 instead of their more specific headings, often under other subheadings of 2106 or even Chapter 19, based on General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b) which prioritizes the essential character.

How should importers classify products under HS 210610?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 210610 involves a thorough review of the product's composition, manufacturing process, and intended use. Importers and customs brokers should first ascertain if the product is indeed a "protein concentrate" (meaning protein content significantly increased from its natural state) or a "textured protein substance" (meaning its physical structure has been altered to resemble meat or other food items). It is crucial to consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2106, along with specific national tariff interpretations like the USITC HTSUS General Notes or EU TARIC classification regulations, to ensure the product meets the precise definitions. Obtaining a laboratory analysis confirming protein content and processing details can be highly beneficial for accurate classification and to avoid potential customs disputes.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 210410 HS 210120 HS 230610 HS 210112 HS 210310 HS 210111

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 2106.10 ('Protein concentrates and textured protein substances') in major markets?

Import duty rates for HS 2106.10 vary significantly by country and trade agreement. For example, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate in some jurisdictions can be 12.00% ad valorem, 6.4% ad valorem, or even 20% ad valorem. In the European Union (EU TARIC), the MFN rate might be 12.80% ad valorem, or 0.00% ad valorem plus an agricultural component (EA). It is crucial to consult the specific country's tariff schedule (e.g., USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, EU TARIC, UK Global Tariff) for the exact applicable rate based on the country of origin and destination.

How do preferential trade agreements affect the duty rates for protein concentrates under HS 2106.10?

Preferential trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for products classified under HS 2106.10. For instance, the United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) often grants duty-free status ('Free') for goods originating from countries with which it has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), such as 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 must ensure the goods meet the Rules of Origin criteria specified in the respective agreement and provide proper documentation, such as a certificate of origin, to claim preferential treatment.

What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing products under HS 2106.10 ('Protein concentrates and textured protein substances') from other food preparations?

HS 2106.10 specifically covers protein concentrates and textured protein substances, which are typically derived from vegetable sources (e.g., soy, pea, wheat) or sometimes milk proteins, designed for human consumption. Key classification criteria, as per the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes (HSEN), focus on the protein content and the intended use. 'Protein concentrates' generally have a high protein content (often 65% or more on a dry basis) and are used as ingredients. 'Textured protein substances' are often produced by extrusion, giving them a fibrous or meat-like texture, intended as meat substitutes or extenders. Products not meeting these specific characteristics, or those that are more complex food preparations with various ingredients beyond just protein concentration, might fall under other headings such as 2106.90 (other food preparations not elsewhere specified or included) or even earlier chapters if they are unmixed proteins (e.g., Chapter 35 for albuminoidal substances).

What specific documentation is typically required by customs authorities for importing goods under HS 2106.10?

Beyond standard import documentation like the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importers of HS 2106.10 products may face additional requirements due to their nature as food products. This can include:

  1. Phytosanitary Certificates: For products derived from plant sources, to certify they are free from pests and diseases.
  2. Health Certificates: Issued by the competent authority in the exporting country, attesting to the product's fitness for human consumption.
  3. Ingredient Lists/Specifications: Detailed breakdown of components, especially for concentrates, to verify classification and compliance with food safety regulations.
  4. Certificates of Origin: Essential for claiming preferential duty rates under free trade agreements.
  5. FDA Prior Notice (for imports into the U.S.): Required for all food products, including protein concentrates, before arrival.
  6. Compliance with specific national food safety regulations: Such as those from the FDA (U.S.), EFSA (EU), or FSA (UK), which may require specific labeling, testing, or registration.