Dairy produce; whey, whether or not concentrated or containing added sugar or other sweetening matter

HS code 040410 covers the trade and production of whey, a valuable byproduct of the dairy industry. Whey is the liquid remaining after milk has been curdled and strained, and it is a rich source of proteins, lactose, and other nutrients. The global whey market is a significant component of the broader dairy industry, with applications ranging from food and beverage production to animal feed and pharmaceuticals. Understanding the nuances of this HS code is crucial for businesses involved in the import, export, or manufacturing of whey-based products.

The production of whey covered under HS code 040410 typically involves the separation of curds from the liquid whey during the cheese-making process. This is often achieved through a combination of coagulation, heating, and mechanical separation techniques. The resulting whey can then be further processed, such as by concentrating, drying, or adding sweeteners, to create a variety of whey-based products.

The primary inputs for the production of whey under HS code 040410 are raw milk and the equipment and facilities necessary for the cheese-making process. Dairy farms, milk processing plants, and specialized whey processing facilities are the main sources of the raw materials and infrastructure required. Additionally, the production may involve the use of various processing aids, such as enzymes, filters, and drying equipment, depending on the specific whey-based products being manufactured.

The main outputs of the industry covered by HS code 040410 are various whey-based products, including concentrated whey, dried whey, and whey with added sweeteners. These outputs can be further processed and incorporated into a wide range of food, beverage, and nutritional products, as well as used in the production of animal feed. Some of the related HS codes that may consume the outputs of this industry include 040120 Milk and cream, not concentrated nor containing added sugar or other sweetening matter, 040690 Cheese and curd, and 230910 Dog or cat food, put up for retail sale.