Annatto-Derived Carotenoid Paste
Annatto-derived carotenoid paste, processed from annatto seeds into a semi-synthetic bixin/norbixin preparation, is used as a natural orange colorant for cheese and snack products. It qualifies under tariff item 3204.18.00 as a carotenoid colouring matter or preparation based thereon, per Chapter Note 3.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | — | Free |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | — | Free |
| 🇺🇸United States | Free | — | Free |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | — | Free |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | — | Free |
More Specific Codes
This product may fall under a more specific subheading:
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the paste is a natural colouring matter of vegetable origin, not chemically modified
Natural annatto extracts may fall under heading 32.03 for colouring matter of vegetable origin.
If the preparation is not specifically carotenoid-based or contains other synthetic colouring matters
Other synthetic organic colouring matter preparations are classified under 3204.19.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Ensure the paste is declared as a carotenoid colouring preparation, not a natural extract, to avoid misclassification
• Provide a certificate of analysis showing bixin/norbixin content for CBSA verification
• Verify if the product meets Canadian food additive regulations for cheese and snacks
Related Products under Tariff item 3204.18.00
Astaxanthin Beadlets for Aquaculture Feed
Astaxanthin beadlets are microencapsulated synthetic carotenoid preparations that provide pink pigmentation to salmon and shrimp in aquaculture feeds. They fall under tariff item 3204.18.00 as preparations based on carotenoid colouring matter, used as ingredients in feed colouring.
Beta-Carotene Food Coloring Powder
Beta-carotene food coloring powder is a synthetic carotenoid colouring matter, chemically processed for use as a yellow-orange pigment in food products. It is classified under tariff item 3204.18.00 as a carotenoid colouring matter, per Chapter Note 3, which includes preparations based on colouring matter for colouring any material.
Beta-Carotene Oil Suspension 30%
Beta-carotene oil suspension at 30% concentration is a carotenoid preparation in vegetable oil, used for colouring margarine and edible fats. It falls under tariff item 3204.18.00 as a preparation based on carotenoid colouring matter, suitable for colouring food products.
Canthaxanthin Granules for Egg Yolk Coloring
Canthaxanthin granules are synthetic carotenoid colouring matters added to poultry feed to produce deep orange egg yolks. They are classified under tariff item 3204.18.00 as preparations based on synthetic carotenoids for animal nutrition, per Chapter Note 3.
Carotenoid Blend Water-Soluble Powder
Carotenoid blend water-soluble powder combines beta-carotene, lutein, and lycopene in a water-soluble matrix for beverage colouring. It falls under tariff item 3204.18.00 as a synthetic carotenoid colouring preparation, per Chapter Note 3, which covers preparations based on colouring matter for colouring any material.
Lutein Microcapsules for Pet Food
Lutein microcapsules are microencapsulated preparations for premium pet foods, enhancing colour and providing vision health benefits. They are classified under tariff item 3204.18.00 as carotenoid colouring preparations for animal feed applications, per Chapter Note 3.