HS Code for Vegetable parchment paper

Vegetable parchment paper is classified under HS code 4806.10. This classification is situated within Chapter 48, which governs paper and paperboard, and articles of paper pulp. Heading 4806 specifically covers vegetable parchment, greaseproof papers, tracing papers, and glassine and other glazed transparent or translucent papers. The classification of vegetable parchment is unique because it is defined by its specific chemical manufacturing process. It is produced by passing a sheet of unsized paper, made from cotton fibers or chemical wood pulp, through a bath of sulfuric acid. This acid treatment partially dissolves or gelatinizes the cellulose, which is then immediately neutralized and washed. This process creates a continuous film of amyloid, making the paper exceptionally tough, grease-resistant, and largely impermeable to water or air. Unlike coated papers, the properties of vegetable parchment are structural. Customs authorities classify this product under 4806.10 based on the absence of coatings and the specific parchmentization process, which distinguishes it from other translucent or grease-resistant alternatives.

Products Included

• Heavy-duty industrial vegetable parchment
• Food-grade parchment for baking and wrapping
• Sulfuric acid-treated translucent paper
• Parchment paper in rolls for retail sale
• Parchment paper in rectangular sheets

Common Misclassification

Vegetable parchment is often misclassified as greaseproof paper (HS code 4806.20) or glassine paper (HS code 4806.40). While all three are translucent and grease-resistant, greaseproof paper is made by mechanical beating of the pulp rather than acid treatment, and glassine is produced through extensive calendering. Furthermore, wax-coated paper is often confused with parchment but belongs under HS code 4811.41 or 4811.60, as it relies on a surface coating rather than a structural chemical change.

FAQ

What is the HS code for vegetable parchment paper?

The HS code for vegetable parchment paper, whether in rolls or sheets, is 4806.10.

Is silicone-treated baking paper classified under 4806.10?

If the base paper is vegetable parchment that has been lightly coated with silicone, it may still fall under 4806.10; however, if the coating is the primary feature, it may be classified under 4811.59 as other coated paper.