Pickle HSN Code: Classification and Taxation
Pickles are an important part of Indian meals and are sold by home businesses, local brands and large food companies.
Understanding the pickle HSN code helps you decide the correct GST rate for bottled, packed and bulk pickles.
HSN Code for Mango Pickle and Other Vegetable Pickles
Most vegetable pickles, including mango pickle, lemon pickle and mixed vegetable pickle, are classified under chapter 20 which covers preparations of vegetables, fruit and other edible parts of plants.
A commonly used heading is 2001 which covers vegetables, fruit and nuts prepared or preserved in vinegar or acetic acid. Packed pickles in jars, bottles or pouches generally fall under this heading.
For GST, such processed and preserved food items are often taxed at either five percent or eighteen percent depending on branding, packaging and specific notifications. Packed branded pickles usually fall under the higher slab.
HSN Code for Homemade Pickles and Loose Pickles
Homemade pickles sold without registered brand names or sold in loose form may attract a lower GST rate or in some cases may be exempt if they meet the conditions of unbranded and unregistered producer supply.
However, once the product is packed with a brand name and supplied through organised trade, the usual processed food heading under chapter 20 applies. Small businesses should carefully read exemption conditions before treating any supply as exempt.
Keeping separate records for loose, unbranded pickles and packed branded pickles helps maintain clear GST reporting.
How Pickle HSN Code Affects GST and Import Duties?
The chosen pickle HSN code determines the GST rate as well as customs duty in case of imports. Misclassification can lead to disputes on the applicable rate, especially where there is a difference between five percent and eighteen percent slabs.
If you deal in niche products like oil based pickles, chilli pastes or ready to eat accompaniments, compare your product composition with tariff descriptions to find the closest matching heading.
When in doubt, use neutral wording in contracts and keep product specifications ready in case the department asks for clarification.
HSN Codes and GST Rates for Pickles
| HSN Code | Product Description | Product Type or Variant | GST Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2001 | Vegetables, fruit, nuts preserved in vinegar or acetic acid | Mango, lemon and mixed vegetable pickles | 5% or 18% |
| 2008 | Fruit, nuts and other edible parts prepared or preserved | Specialty pickles and chutney style products | 5% or 18% |
| 0711 | Vegetables provisionally preserved | Semi processed pickled vegetables for further processing | 5% or 18% |
Conclusion
The pickle HSN code is usually drawn from chapter 20 which covers preserved vegetables and fruits.
Correct classification and clear documentation help you apply the right GST rate, manage margins and avoid later disputes on processed food tax treatment.
As a Chartered Accountant with more than 8 years of experience, I have refined my skills in the field and developed a true passion for writing. I specialize in creating insightful content on topics such as GST, income tax, audits, and accounts payable. By focusing on delivering information that is both engaging and informative, I aim to share valuable insights that resonate with readers.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the HSN code for mango pickle?
Mango pickle packed in jars or pouches is usually classified under heading 2001 along with other vegetables and fruits preserved in vinegar or acetic acid. The exact eight digit code can depend on the mixture and packing.
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Are homemade pickles subject to different HSN codes?
Homemade pickles still fall under the same broad heading, but when they are sold without a brand and meet exemption conditions they may enjoy concessional treatment. You should still quote a correct HSN code on invoices wherever GST applies.
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How does HSN code affect the price of pickles?
The HSN code links the pickle to the GST slab. If the product falls in a higher slab, the selling price to consumers will include more tax, which can influence demand and margins.
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Why is HSN code essential for businesses selling pickles?
Pickle manufacturers and traders must report HSN wise sales in their GST returns. Proper codes help avoid show cause notices and smoothen processes like refunds and assessments.
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Is there an HSN code for spicy pickles or variants?
Spicy pickles do not get a special HSN just for spice level. They are generally covered in the same preserved vegetable or fruit headings as standard pickles, with rate depending on packaging and branding.