Find HS Code and trade information for tea ball strainers

Tea Ball Strainers

Tea ball strainers are infusers used to brew tea directly in a cup or pot, facilitating easy tea leaf separation after steeping. They typically consist of a metal enclosure with perforations allowing water to circulate while containing loose leaf tea.

Material

• Stainless Steel: The most common material, valued for its durability, resistance to rust and corrosion, and lack of flavor impact. Grades 304 and 316 are frequently used.
• Nickel: Less common due to potential allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
• Silver: Historically used, but less practical due to cost and tarnishing.
• Plastic: Often found in lower-cost models; can impart flavors and are less heat resistant.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a tea ball strainer is to allow for the brewing of loose leaf tea without the sediment typically associated with direct immersion. They provide a convenient method for single-cup brewing or smaller pot infusions.

Function

Tea ball strainers function by containing loose leaf tea within a perforated enclosure. Hot water is poured over the tea leaves, allowing them to unfurl and release flavor and aroma. The perforations enable water circulation and subsequent diffusion of tea compounds into the water. Once steeping is complete, the strainer is removed, leaving only the brewed tea.

Usage Scenarios

• Single-Cup Brewing: Ideal for personal tea consumption, allowing for customized strength and flavor.
• Small Pot Infusions: Suitable for brewing tea for a limited number of servings.
• Travel: Compact and portable, making them convenient for brewing tea on the go.
• Various Tea Types: Compatible with most loose leaf tea varieties, including black, green, white, oolong, and herbal teas.

Common Types

• Sphere Shape: The most recognizable type, consisting of a hinged sphere that opens and closes. Sizes vary.
• Cone Shape: A conical mesh enclosure, often with a handle or chain for easy removal.
• Basket Shape: A cylindrical or rectangular mesh container, offering more space for larger leaf teas.
• Locking/Clasp Types: Feature a secure locking mechanism to prevent tea leaves from escaping during brewing.
• Tea Socks: Small, reusable fabric pouches, often made of muslin or cotton, offering a different containment method.
• Infuser Mugs: Mugs with integrated tea ball strainers or baskets, providing a self-contained brewing solution.

Tea ball strainers fall under various classifications depending on their material. Here's a breakdown of potential HS codes based on the provided reference material:

• 7323930060: This code covers “Table, kitchen or other household articles and parts thereof, of iron or steel: Other: Of stainless steel Cooking and kitchen ware: Other: Kitchen ware”. If the tea ball strainer is made of stainless steel, this HS code is applicable. It falls under Chapter 73 (Articles of iron or steel) and specifically identifies kitchen ware made of stainless steel.

• 3924104000: This code covers “Tableware, kitchenware, other household articles and hygienic or toilet articles, of plastics: Tableware and kitchenware: Other”. If the tea ball strainer is made of plastic, this HS code is applicable. It falls under Chapter 39 (Plastics and articles thereof) and identifies other kitchenware made of plastics.

• 7418100004: This code covers “Table, kitchen or other household articles and parts thereof, of copper; pot scourers and scouring or polishing pads, gloves and the like, of copper; sanitary ware and parts thereof, of copper: Table, kitchen or other household articles and parts thereof; pot scourers and scouring or polishing pads, gloves and the like Pot scourers and scouring or polishing pads, gloves and the like: Other”. If the tea ball strainer is made of copper, this HS code is applicable. It falls under Chapter 74 (Copper and articles thereof) and identifies kitchenware made of copper.

• 3926901600: This code covers “Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: Other: Pacifiers”. While primarily for pacifiers, if the tea ball strainer is made of plastic and has a similar function or design, this code might be considered, though less directly applicable than 3924104000. It falls under Chapter 39 (Plastics and articles thereof).

Regarding HS code 3924104000, the basic tariff is 3.4%, with no additional tariffs currently applied, but a 30.0% tariff will be applied after 2025.4.2.

Regarding HS code 7323930060, the basic tariff is 2.0%, with no additional tariffs currently applied, but a 30.0% tariff will be applied after 2025.4.2, and a 25% tariff will be applied to steel and aluminum products.

Regarding HS code 7418100004, the basic tariff is 3.0%, and an additional tariff of 7.5% is applied, with a 30.0% tariff applied after 2025.4.2.