12122900
OIL SEEDS AND OLEAGINOUS FRUITS; MISCELLANEOUS GRAINS, SEEDS AND FRUIT; INDUSTRIAL OR MEDICINAL PLANTS; STRAW AND FODDER›Locust beans, seaweeds and other algae, sugar beet and sugar cane, fresh, chilled, frozen or dried, whether or not ground; fruit stones and kernels and other vegetable products (including unroasted chicory roots of the variety Cichorium intybus sativum) of a kind used primarily for human consumption, not elsewhere specified or included
Other
Classification of other carob
CN code 121229 covers carob in forms other than fit for direct human consumption, including feed-grade pods, carob processing waste, and unprocessed carob seeds. Products are used mainly in the feed industry, locust bean gum production, and as raw materials for further processing. Seeds are a valuable raw material for locust bean gum production.
Regulatory requirements
Feed-grade carob imports are subject to Regulation (EC) No 183/2005 on feed hygiene. Carob seeds for gum production are subject to food safety requirements. Controls cover pesticides and mycotoxins. A phytosanitary certificate is required.
Trade and import practice
Importers should indicate CN code 121229 with description of intended use. Documentation includes phytosanitary and analysis certificates. The carob seed and feed market is linked to the locust bean gum market showing stable growth.
Carob products and their applications
Other locust beans under CN 1212 29 cover carob products other than those fit for direct consumption - including carob seeds for gum production, broken pods for feed and carob extract. Carob seeds are the raw material for locust bean gum (E410), widely used as a stabiliser in ice cream, sauces and dairy products. Imports are subject to phytosanitary controls. Main producers are Mediterranean countries. Correct classification depends on the degree of processing of the carob product and its intended use.
Frequently asked questions
How does code 121221 differ from 121229?
Code 121221 covers carob fit for direct human consumption, while 121229 covers other carob including feed-grade pods and seeds for locust bean gum production.
What are carob seeds used for?
Carob seeds are raw material for locust bean gum (E410) production used as a thickener in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. The seed endosperm is ground into flour for gum production.
Does feed-grade carob require registration?
Feed materials are subject to Regulation (EC) No 183/2005 on feed hygiene. Feed producing and trading establishments must be registered or approved.
What does CN 1212 29 cover besides edible carob?
CN 1212 29 covers carob seeds for gum production, broken pods for feed and carob extract. Carob fit for direct consumption is classified under CN 1212 21 separately.
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