Food Grade Oat Groats
Food grade oat groats are whole oat kernels from which the inedible hull has been removed, but the grain itself remains otherwise unprocessed. Under the Customs Tariff, heading 10.04 covers oats only if grains are present, and hulling alone does not exclude them from the chapter. These groats serve as the base for instant oatmeal and other breakfast cereals.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | — | Free |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | — | Free |
| 🇺🇸United States | Free | — | Free |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | — | Free |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | — | Free |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the groats are rolled or flaked after import
Rolled oats are processed grains classified in chapter 11, not chapter 10.
If the oats are imported for sowing
Seed oats are specifically excluded from the 'other' subheading and fall under a separate tariff item.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Ensure the groats are not further processed (e.g
• steamed, rolled, or cut) before import, as that would move them to another heading
• Declare the oats as 'hulled, not further worked' to support classification under 1004.90.00
• Keep supplier documentation showing the grain is intact and only the hull was removed
Related Products under Tariff item 1004.90.00
Avena Nuda Naked Oats
Avena nuda naked oats are a hull-less oat variety harvested directly with edible kernels exposed, ideal for high-protein animal feed. They are classified under tariff item 1004.90.00 as 'other oats' because they are unmilled grains, not hulled or worked, and meet the Chapter 10 requirement of grains being present.
Avena Nuda Oats
Avena nuda, or naked oats, are an ancient oat variety characterized by naturally thin or absent hulls. They are classified under tariff item 1004.90.00 as 'other oats' because they are unmilled grains of the oat species, not further worked beyond harvesting and cleaning.
Black Hulless Oats
Black hulless oats are a variety of oats that naturally lack hulls, offering higher nutritional value. They are classified under tariff item 1004.90.00 as 'other oats' because they are unmilled grains, not subject to hulling or further processing, and fall within the scope of Chapter 10.
Certified Organic Avena Sativa Oats
Certified organic Avena sativa oats are botanically pure oat grains of the standard species, imported in bulk without varietal distinction. As unmilled, unworked grains, they fall under heading 10.04 as 'other oats.' The organic certification does not affect tariff classification but may be relevant for duty preference claims under trade agreements.
Certified Organic Bulk Oat Kernels
Certified organic bulk oat kernels are unhulled oat grains shipped in large quantities for further processing. Since the grains are present and have not been hulled or worked, they are classified in heading 10.04 as 'other oats.' The product is imported as raw grain and will undergo processing only after arrival in Canada.
Certified Organic Hulled Oats
Certified organic hulled oats have had their outer hull removed but are otherwise unprocessed. The chapter notes exclude hulled grains from chapter 10, except for rice; however, for oats, hulling alone does not constitute 'working' that removes them from heading 10.04. These oats are used in food processing and retain their status as unmilled grains.