Vanillin
Vanillin is a synthetic aromatic aldehyde-phenol compound used primarily as a flavoring agent to impart vanilla flavor in food and beverages. It falls under HTS 2912.49.26.00 as an aromatic aldehyde with other oxygen function, specifically featuring both aldehyde and phenolic hydroxyl groups. This classification applies to its chemically defined structure as 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Rate | Ch.99 Surcharges | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | 5.5% | +25.0% | 30.5% |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | 5.5% | — | 5.5% |
| 🇨🇦Canada | 5.5% | — | 5.5% |
| 🇩🇪Germany | 5.5% | — | 5.5% |
| 🇯🇵Japan | 5.5% | — | 5.5% |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If derived from natural vanilla beans
Coloring matter of vegetable origin like natural vanilla extract classifies in Chapter 32, not as separate organic compounds.
If when put up as food flavoring preparation for retail sale
Mixtures containing vanillin prepared for retail food flavoring fall under Chapter 33 as food preparations, not pure compounds.
If imported as solution in solvent for specific industrial use
Solutions exceeding Chapter 29 note (e) limits for safety/transport classify as chemical preparations in 3824.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Verify purity certificates as vanillin must meet FCC/USP standards for food use; impurities may trigger reclassification
• Include detailed chemical composition on commercial invoice to confirm aromatic aldehyde-phenol status under Chapter 29
• Avoid common pitfall of mislabeling as 'natural vanilla extract' which falls under Chapter 33; synthetic forms stay in 2912
Related Products under HTS 2912.49.26.00
Anisaldehyde (4-Methoxybenzaldehyde)
Anisaldehyde is an aromatic aldehyde-ether compound used in flavorings, fragrances, and as a chemical intermediate. Classified in HTS 2912.49.26.00 for its aromatic aldehyde with methoxy (ether) oxygen function. Meets criteria as chemically defined organic compound without exclusions.
Lilial (Butylphenyl Methylpropional)
Lilial is a synthetic aromatic aldehyde used in floral perfumes for its muguet (lily of the valley) scent. HTS 2912.49.26.00 classification reflects its aromatic aldehyde with additional oxygen function. Restricted EU use increases U.S. import documentation requirements.
p-Tolualdehyde (4-Methylbenzaldehyde)
p-Tolualdehyde is an aromatic aldehyde used in pharmaceutical synthesis and as a fragrance intermediate. Falls under HTS 2912.49.26.00 as 'other' aromatic aldehyde with oxygen function. Chemically defined methyl-substituted benzaldehyde.
Veratraldehyde (3,4-Dimethoxybenzaldehyde)
Veratraldehyde is a dimethoxy aromatic aldehyde used in raspberry flavorings and pharmaceutical intermediates. HTS 2912.49.26.00 covers this aldehyde-ether compound with two methoxy groups. Pure compound status confirmed by Chapter 29 criteria.
4-Hydroxybenzaldehyde
4-Hydroxybenzaldehyde is an aromatic aldehyde-phenol used in pharmaceutical synthesis and as a chemical intermediate for producing antiseptics and fragrances. Classified under HTS 2912.49.26.00 due to its aromatic structure containing both aldehyde and phenolic oxygen functions. Meets Chapter 29 requirements for separate chemically defined organic compounds.
Helional (3-(1,3-Benzodioxol-5-yl)-2-methylpropanal)
Helional is an aromatic aldehyde-ether used in perfumery for its fresh, floral, watermelon-like scent profile. Falls under HTS 2912.49.26.00 as an aromatic aldehyde with ether oxygen function in its benzodioxole structure. Qualifies as a separate chemically defined compound per Chapter 29 note (a).