About HS Code 320418
Carotenoid coloring matters are natural or nature-identical pigments known for their vibrant yellow, orange, and red hues. They are widely used in the food and beverage industry, animal feed, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics due to their coloring properties and often, their antioxidant benefits. This trade is driven by consumer demand for natural ingredients and clean labels, as well as the need for stable and effective colorants in various applications. Major importers include countries with large food processing industries (e.g., USA, EU member states, China) and animal feed producers. Exporters are often specialized chemical and biotechnology companies, particularly from regions with strong agricultural bases for raw materials or advanced synthesis capabilities, such as Europe (e.g., Switzerland, Germany) and China. Key aspects include regulatory approvals for food additives, stability against light and heat, and the sourcing of raw materials like carrots, marigolds, or algae for natural extracts, or advanced synthetic production methods.
Products Under This Code
Beta-carotene, Lycopene, Lutein, Astaxanthin, Canthaxanthin, Zeaxanthin, Annatto extract (bixin/norbixin)
Real World Examples
DSM OVNISCIENCE Carophyll, BASF Lucantin, Chr. Hansen NatuRColor, Kemin FloraGLO Lutein
Common Misclassification
This code might be confused with other natural food colorants under 320300 (e.g., cochineal, turmeric) or even synthetic food dyes under 320419 if the specific carotenoid chemical structure is not identified.
Products Classified Under 3204.18
Industry
This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.
Trade Overview
The USA, Germany, China, and Brazil are significant players in the import and export of carotenoid coloring matters, reflecting their food and feed industries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 320418?
HS code 320418 covers: Dyes; carotenoid colouring matters and preparations based thereon. Carotenoid coloring matters are natural or nature-identical pigments known for their vibrant yellow, orange, and red hues. They are widely used in the food and beverage industry, animal feed, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics due to their coloring properties and often, their antioxidant benefits. This trade is driven by consumer demand for natural ingredients and clean labels, as well as the need for stable and effective colorants in various applications. Major importers include countries with large food processing industries (e.g., USA, EU member states, China) and animal feed producers. Exporters are often specialized chemical and biotechnology companies, particularly from regions with strong agricultural bases for raw materials or advanced synthesis capabilities, such as Europe (e.g., Switzerland, Germany) and China. Key aspects include regulatory approvals for food additives, stability against light and heat, and the sourcing of raw materials like carrots, marigolds, or algae for natural extracts, or advanced synthetic production methods.
What products fall under HS code 320418?
Beta-carotene, Lycopene, Lutein, Astaxanthin, Canthaxanthin, Zeaxanthin, Annatto extract (bixin/norbixin)
What are common misclassifications for HS code 320418?
This code might be confused with other natural food colorants under 320300 (e.g., cochineal, turmeric) or even synthetic food dyes under 320419 if the specific carotenoid chemical structure is not identified.
How is HS code 320418 structured?
HS code 320418 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (32) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (04) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (18) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.