Buyer's guide
Common grades and specifications
- Hydrocolloids: xanthan gum, guar gum, pectin, gum arabic
- Colours from plant sources (e.g. paprika, annatto, beetroot) and approved synthetic colours
- Flavours (must use alcohol-free carriers)
- Sweeteners and polyols
- Gelatin only from fish or non-animal sources; porcine is not accepted
Typical packaging
25 kg bags, cartons or drums; liquids in drums or IBCs.
Typical minimum order
Commonly from one pallet to one container.
HS code (4-digit headings)
| Heading | Description |
|---|---|
| 1302 | Vegetable saps, extracts, pectins, mucilages and thickeners |
| 3203 | Colouring matter of vegetable or animal origin |
| 3302 | Mixtures of odoriferous substances (flavours) |
| 2106 | Food preparations n.e.s. |
Guidance only. The exact 6- to 10-digit code depends on the product and the importing country's tariff. Confirm with your customs broker.
Incoterms tips
For containerised goods, FCA, CPT or CIP are usually a better fit than FOB/CIF, because the seller hands over at a terminal or warehouse rather than over the ship's rail. Use DAP or DDP only if the seller can really handle delivery (and, for DDP, import clearance) in your country.
Quality documents to request
- COA and specification (E-number purity criteria)
- Raw-material source statement
- Allergen and GMO statement
- SDS
Sourcing notes
Plant, synthetic or mineral sources only. Ethanol-based flavour carriers and animal gelatin are rejected.