Almonds|HTS Code

Almonds harmonized system code

Product Overview Almonds under HTS 0802.12 (Prunus dulcis kernels, shelled) are the edible kernels removed from the nut shell and presented raw, dried, or subjected to minimal processing for direct consumption or further industrial use. Product definition: whole or broken shelled almonds (kernels), unroasted, typically controlled to a moisture content of approximately 3–7% by weight and with oil content in the range of ~48–55%. Key characteristics include commercial kernel counts (commonly 18–30 kernels/oz depending on size grade), color range (ivory to light brown), varietal differences (e.g., Nonpareil, Carmel) that affect split rate and surface texture, and physical parameters such as foreign material limits and broken-kernel percentage. Processing levels encountered in trade include raw, blanched (seed coat removed), pasteurized (steam or approved chemical treatments), sliced, slivered, chopped, and ground (meal/flour). Product classifications within HTS 0802.12 distinguish by condition (raw vs. blanched), form (whole, sliced, slivered, chopped, ground) and treatment (pasteurized/irradiated), and are used by importers, processors, and retail packers to specify procurement and quality requirements. HTS Code Classification & Trade Specifications Complete HTS Code Structure: 6‑digit subheading 080212 — Chapter 08 (Edible fruit and nuts), Heading 0802 (Other nuts, fresh or dried, whether or not shelled or peeled), Subheading 080212 (Almonds, shelled). Classification rationale: shelled edible kernels are placed at 0802.12 because they are whole or simply treated nuts that remain the same basic product (including blanching or pasteurization); the subheading changes only when additional ingredients or substantial transformation create products classified elsewhere. Trade considerations: common commercial packaging includes 25 kg polypropylene or multiwall paper sacks, 500–1,000 kg bulk FIBCs, and corrugated retail cartons with liners; hermetic or modified-atmosphere packaging (MAP) and cold-chain control (storage 0–10°C, RH <65%) are used to preserve quality on long shipments. Shipping compliance typically requires ISPM‑15 treated pallets, phytosanitary certificates where applicable, pest‑free declarations, FDA prior notice for U.S. entry, and accurate HTS declaration. Quality specifications on contracts frequently cite moisture ≤7% by weight, oil content ~48–55%, allowable broken-kernel percentage (contract-specified, e.g., ≤2–5% for high grades), and testing for mycotoxins and pesticide residues to importing-country limits.

Almonds Chapter Note

1.- This Chapter does not cover inedible nuts or fruits. 2.- Chilled fruits and nuts are to be classified in the same headings as the corresponding fresh fruits and nuts. 3.- Dried fruit or dried nuts of this Chapter may be partially rehydrated, or treated for the following purposes : (a) For additional preservation or stabilisation (for example, by moderate heat treatment, sulphuring, the addition of sorbic acid or potassium sorbate), (b) To improve or maintain their appearance (for example, by the addition of vegetable oil or small quantities of glucose syrup), provided that they retain the character of dried fruit or dried nuts. 4.- Heading 08.12 applies to fruit and nuts which have been treated solely to ensure their provisional preservation during transport or storage prior to use (for example, by sulphur dioxide gas, in brine, in sulphur water or in other preservative solutions), provided they remain unsuitable for immediate consumption in that state.