GST on Meat in India: Fresh, Frozen, and Processed

Meat is a staple in many Indian households—be it chicken, mutton, or seafood. But is meat taxable under GST? The answer depends on how the meat is processed and packaged. In this blog, we’ll explore the gst on meat in India, breaking it down into fresh, frozen, and processed categories so you understand exactly when GST applies.

BOOK A FREE DEMO




    Is Meat Taxable Under GST?

    Under the Goods and Services Tax regime, raw and unprocessed meat is exempt from GST, while processed or packaged meat is taxable. The GST law makes a clear distinction between:

    • Fresh meat – sold without any branding or packaging
    • Frozen/processed meat – which is packaged, branded, or preserved

    Get a Free Demo of – Best FMCG Accounting Software

    GST on Fresh Meat

    Type of Meat GST Status GST Rate Remarks
    Fresh chicken, mutton, beef Exempt 0% No GST on loose, unbranded meat
    Fish, prawns, and seafood Exempt 0% Fresh and unprocessed
    Poultry meat (non-packaged) Exempt 0% No tax when sold without branding

    GST on Frozen Meat

    Meat Type HSN Code GST Rate
    Frozen meat (branded/packaged) 0202 / 0203 12%
    Frozen poultry and seafood 0303 / 0304 5% or 12%
    Meat packed in vacuum or sealed bags 0207 / 0210 12%

    Examples include:

    • Frozen chicken nuggets = 12%
    • Vacuum-packed raw fish = 5% or 12%
    • Ready-to-fry meat patties = 12%

    Also Know About – Meat HSN Code

    GST on Meat Products (Processed or Canned)

    Meat Product HSN Code GST Rate
    Canned meat and sausages 1601 / 1602 12%
    Meat pickles and pouches 1601 / 1602 12% or 18%
    Cold cuts and meat rolls 1602 12%

    Who Needs to Pay GST on Meat?

    • Meat processing units
    • Frozen meat brands and packaging companies
    • Online meat delivery platforms
    • Supermarkets and cold storage sellers
    • Restaurants and food manufacturers

    Local butchers and farmers selling loose meat directly to consumers do not have to collect GST.

    Get a Free Demo – Best Billing and Invoicing Software

    Please Wait

    BUSY is a simple, yet powerful GST / VAT compliant Business Accounting Software that has everything you need to grow your business.

    phone Sales & Support:

    +91 82 82 82 82 82
    +91 11 - 4096 4096