15089000
ANIMAL, VEGETABLE OR MICROBIAL FATS AND OILS AND THEIR CLEAVAGE PRODUCTS; PREPARED EDIBLE FATS; ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE WAXES›Groundnut oil and its fractions, whether or not refined, but not chemically modified
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Subcodes (2)
Classification scope and product characteristics
CN code 150890 covers refined groundnut (peanut) oil and its fractions, not chemically modified. Refined peanut oil is characterised by a high smoke point, neutral flavour, and light yellow colour, making it a popular frying and food production oil. Classification under this code requires the product to have undergone refining processes such as neutralisation, bleaching, and deodorisation, going beyond the crude form classified under 150810. Fractions of peanut oil obtained by fractional crystallisation also fall under this code. Groundnut oil is a significant trade commodity imported mainly from Argentina, China, India, and African countries. Correct classification requires documentation confirming the degree of refining.
Food safety and import requirements
Importing peanut oil into the European Union is subject to strict food safety requirements due to the risk of aflatoxin contamination. Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 sets maximum levels for aflatoxins in vegetable oils, and customs authorities may order sampling for laboratory testing. Groundnuts and derived products from certain countries are subject to increased official controls under Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1793. Peanut oil as a potent allergen requires mandatory declaration on labels under Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011. Import requires a phytosanitary certificate and documentation confirming compliance with EU pesticide standards. Processing establishments in third countries must meet food hygiene requirements.
Practical guidance for international trade
Importers of refined peanut oil should include CN code 150890 in the customs declaration with a precise product description and country of origin. Due to aflatoxin risk, pre-shipment laboratory testing in the exporting country is recommended. It is advisable to check whether the import qualifies for tariff preferences under EU trade agreements or the GSP scheme. Transport of peanut oil requires appropriate temperature conditions and clean transport containers. Trade documentation should include a certificate of analysis with oil quality parameters, aflatoxin and pesticide test results, and a certificate of origin. In 2026, importers should monitor changes in regulations regarding increased controls for specific countries.
EU import requirements for refined groundnut oil CN 1508 90
Refined groundnut (peanut) oil under CN 1508 90 carries a conventional duty of 6.4%. Imports are subject to enhanced aflatoxin controls under Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006, with increased border checks for products from certain countries. As a major allergen, groundnut oil must comply with EU labelling requirements under Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011. Importers should consider applying for a BTI ruling to secure the correct classification and avoid delays at customs.
Frequently asked questions
Why is peanut oil subject to increased import controls in the EU?
Groundnuts and their derivatives, including peanut oil, are particularly susceptible to aflatoxin contamination – toxic metabolites of Aspergillus fungi. Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1793 provides for increased official controls on groundnut products from specified countries, including higher sampling frequencies at the border.
Must peanut oil be labelled as an allergen?
Yes. Groundnuts are listed among allergens in Annex II to Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011. Peanut oil, even refined, must be declared as an allergen on food product labels. EU legislation does not provide an exemption for fully refined peanut oil.
What quality documents are required for peanut oil imports?
Importing refined peanut oil requires a certificate of analysis with physicochemical parameters, aflatoxin test results compliant with EU limits, pesticide residue results, and a certificate of origin. For countries subject to increased controls, an official certificate accompanying the consignment is also required.
Are there special controls for importing groundnut oil CN 1508 90?
Yes, groundnut oil CN 1508 90 is subject to enhanced aflatoxin controls at EU borders. Imports from certain countries face increased testing frequency. A health certificate from the country of origin is required alongside standard customs documentation.
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