12075000
OIL SEEDS AND OLEAGINOUS FRUITS; MISCELLANEOUS GRAINS, SEEDS AND FRUIT; INDUSTRIAL OR MEDICINAL PLANTS; STRAW AND FODDER›Other oil seeds and oleaginous fruits, whether or not broken
Mustard seeds
Subcodes (2)
Classification of mustard seeds
CN code 120750 covers mustard seeds, whether or not broken. Mustard is grown in several varieties including white mustard (Sinapis alba), black mustard (Brassica nigra), and brown mustard (Brassica juncea). Mustard seeds are used to produce prepared mustard, mustard oil, and as a culinary spice. Classification under 120750 covers all mustard varieties. Major producers include Canada, Nepal, Russia, and Ukraine. Imports into the EU serve primarily for mustard condiment production, mustard oil, and as feed and spice blend ingredients.
Food safety requirements
Importing mustard seeds is subject to EU food safety requirements. Mustard is listed among allergens in Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011, imposing mandatory labelling. Seeds are subject to contaminant controls including pesticides, mycotoxins, and heavy metals. Mustard seeds contain glucosinolates and isothiocyanates which in large quantities may be harmful. Oil from black mustard with high erucic acid content is subject to EU restrictions - Regulation (EU) 2023/915 sets erucic acid limits in food. A phytosanitary certificate is required for import.
Trade and import practice
Importers should indicate CN code 120750 with a certificate of analysis covering quality parameters, pesticide and mycotoxin results. Imports from Canada may benefit from CETA preferences. Transport in sacks or big bags under dry conditions. Documentation includes phytosanitary certificates, analysis certificates, and origin documents. In 2026, the mustard seed market is stable with growing interest in organic varieties. Organic mustard seeds must meet Regulation (EU) 2018/848 requirements.
Mustard seeds in the EU food industry
Mustard seeds under CN 1207 50 are imported mainly for mustard condiment production, mustard oil and spices. Main suppliers are Canada, Nepal and Ukraine. Imports are subject to erucic acid controls - Regulation (EU) 2019/1870 sets a limit of 20 mg/kg in oils and fats. Mustard seeds contain allergens (mustard is one of 14 allergens listed in Regulation (EU) 1169/2011). Phytosanitary controls cover storage pest and seed disease testing. Moisture content should not exceed 10% for safe storage and transport.
Frequently asked questions
Is mustard an allergen requiring declaration?
Yes. Mustard is listed among allergens in Annex II to Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011. Food products containing mustard or its derivatives must declare its presence on the label, regardless of the form used.
Is mustard oil subject to restrictions in the EU?
Oil from black and brown mustard may contain high levels of erucic acid, which is subject to EU limits. Regulation (EU) 2023/915 sets the maximum level of erucic acid in vegetable oils. White mustard oil has lower erucic acid levels.
Where does most mustard seed imported into the EU originate?
Canada is the main exporter of mustard seeds to the EU, dominating global mustard production. Imports from Canada benefit from CETA tariff preferences. Other important countries include Nepal, Russia, and Ukraine.
Is mustard under CN 1207 50 an allergen under EU rules?
Yes, mustard is one of 14 allergens listed in Regulation (EU) 1169/2011. Products containing mustard must be properly labelled in the EU with the allergen clearly indicated.
Useful tools & resources
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