12079900
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
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Classification of other oilseeds
CN code 120799 covers other oil seeds and oleaginous fruits, whether or not broken, not specified in other subheadings of heading 1207. This residual heading covers poppy seeds, perilla seeds, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds (Salvia hispanica), hemp seeds, and other less common oilseeds. Chia seeds have gained superfood status and represent a significant share of imports under this code. Classification requires exclusion from more specific CN codes. Botanical identification is essential. Major exporters depend on the specific product - chia comes mainly from Mexico, Bolivia, and Paraguay, while poppy seeds come from Czech Republic, Turkey, and Australia.
Food safety requirements and regulations
Importing oilseeds under 120799 is subject to general EU food safety requirements. Some seeds such as chia may be subject to novel food provisions - chia was authorised as novel food in the EU in 2009 with specific use limits. Industrial hemp seeds must meet THC limits in the destination country. Controls cover pesticides, mycotoxins, heavy metals, and alkaloids (for poppy seeds - opium alkaloids). Regulation (EU) 2023/915 sets opium alkaloid limits in poppy seeds. A phytosanitary certificate is required. Labelling is governed by Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011.
Practical import aspects
Importers should precisely describe the product in customs declarations, indicating the botanical name and CN code 120799. The certificate of analysis should cover parameters appropriate for the specific seed. Preferential rates may be available under GSP or trade agreements. Transport requires dry conditions. Documentation includes phytosanitary certificates, analysis certificates, and origin documents. In 2026, demand for chia, poppy, and hemp seeds as functional food ingredients is growing.
Niche oil seeds in EU trade
Other oil seeds under CN 1207 99 cover a wide range of seeds not separately classified, such as hemp seeds, perilla, chia, sacha inchi and many others. These niche products are gaining importance due to food trends. Hemp seed imports require special attention - THC content must be below 0.3% (Regulation (EU) 2022/1393). Chia seeds from South America are subject to standard novel food controls. Documentation must precisely identify the plant species for correct classification and to verify compliance with applicable regulations.
Frequently asked questions
Do chia seeds require novel food authorisation?
Chia seeds were authorised as novel food in the EU in 2009 and may be placed on the market with specific use limits in individual food categories. Current limits and conditions are set in the EU novel food register.
What alkaloid limits apply to poppy seeds?
Regulation (EU) 2023/915 sets maximum levels for opium alkaloids (morphine and codeine) in poppy seeds intended for consumer sale. Limits aim to ensure food safety while preserving traditional use of poppy seeds in baking.
Can hemp seeds be imported into the EU as food?
Yes. Industrial hemp seeds with THC content below the permissible limit can be imported as food. Documentation confirming origin from industrial hemp is required. THC limits in hemp seeds vary between Member States.
Are hemp seeds classified under CN 1207 99 legal in the EU?
Yes, hemp seeds under CN 1207 99 are legal, but THC content must be below 0.3%. Import requires a certificate confirming the variety is an EU-listed fibre hemp cultivar.
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