food colour hs code

Food Colour HS Code: Unveiling International Trade Classifications

By Hannah WilliamsDecember 25, 2025

Food colour is a crucial aspect in the culinary industry, adding vibrancy and visual appeal to dishes. When it comes to international trade, understanding the Harmonized System (HS) code is essential for successful classification and taxation of these products. Let's delve into the world of food colour HS codes.

The HS code for food colours varies depending on the type of colouring, its source, and composition. The World Customs Organization's Harmonized System, which provides a standardized system for classifying traded products, has these codes categorized under Chapter 38: 'Chemicals and Allied Industries' and Heading 38.24: 'Products to be used in the manufacture of food'.

Natural Food Colours

Natural food colours are derived from plant, animal, or mineral sources and are increasingly preferred due to their perceived safety. They're classified under subheadings 38.24.10 - 38.24.12, 38.24.14, and 38.24.16.

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These include products like Anthocyanins (HS Code: 38.24.10), Carotenoids (HS Code: 38.24.12), and Chlorophylls (HS Code: 38.24.16). Another significant category is 'Cochineal and Carmine' (HS Code: 38.24.14), extracted from insects, which provides a deep red colour.

Plant-based Colours

Some of the most common plant-based colours are derived from spices and vegetables. Turmeric, for instance, provides a vibrant yellow hue and is classified under heading 09.01: 'Spices'. Similarly, beetroot and spinach contribute to red and green colours respectively, classified under relevant vegetable headings.

some type of food that is on top of each other in different colors and sizes

the different types of chocolates are shown in this graphic style, and each type is labeled

the logo for cherry cola, which is red and white with black lettering on it

Another notable example is Spirulina, a type of blue-green algae, which gives a green or blue tint to foods. It's often classified under heading 12.12: 'Alginates and other derivatives of algae' or 16.04: 'Algae and changing seaweeds'.

Animal and Mineral-based Colours

Cochineal and Carmine, as mentioned earlier, are derived from the female cochineal insect. The extraction process and colour production methods contribute to their unique HS code classification.

Carbon black, used as a black colourant, is predominantly produced from combustion of hydrocarbons and is classified under heading 38.25: 'Inorganic chemicals', specifically under subheading 38.25.80.

a table topped with lots of different types of food

the chocolate bar is stacked on top of each other

the color scheme is red, green, and yellow with some berries on top of it

an image of food that is labeled in the color chart for each part of the table

Synthetic Food Colours

Synthetic food colours, derived from petroleum or coal tar, are more stable and consistent than natural colours but face stricter regulations due to health concerns. They're generally classified under subheading 38.24.90: 'Other products to be used in the manufacture of food' and heading 38.25: 'Inorganic chemicals'.

Some common synthetic colours include tartrazine (HS Code: 38.24.90.10), quinoline yellow (HS Code: 38.24.90.11), and sunset yellow (HS Code: 38.24.90.12), all classified under subheading 38.24.90.1 with further breakdowns based on specific compounds.

Regulations and Safety

Food colour regulations vary by region, with the European Union, United States, and other countries having specific guidelines and approved lists. It's crucial for exporters and importers to stay updated with the latest regulations to avoid any compliance issues.

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Safety is another significant aspect in food colours. Synthetic colours often face health concerns, with some studies linking certain colours to allergic reactions, cancer, or other health issues. Natural colours, while generally considered safer, can still cause reactions in some individuals. Therefore, thorough testing and labelling are essential.

In the dynamic landscape of international trade, understanding and complying with food colour HS codes are crucial for businesses to operate smoothly and avoid potential legal and financial pitfalls. As trends shift towards more natural colours and stricter regulations, staying informed about the latest developments in this sector is vital for success.