Carbonated soft drinks Hs Code

Carbonated soft drinks harmonized system code

Product Overview Carbonated soft drinks classified under HS Code 220210 are non-alcoholic beverages characterized by the presence of dissolved carbon dioxide, resulting in effervescence. These products typically consist of water, sweeteners (such as sucrose, glucose-fructose syrups), flavoring agents, acids (e.g., citric acid, phosphoric acid), and carbonation introduced during bottling. Physically, they are clear to colored liquids with a pH generally ranging from 2.5 to 4.5, packaged predominantly in glass bottles, aluminum cans, or PET containers with volumes ranging from 200 ml to 2 liters. Processing involves pasteurization or aseptic filling to ensure microbiological stability and extended shelf life. The HS Code 220210 encompasses various subcategories, including cola-flavored drinks, fruit-flavored carbonated beverages, and tonic waters, each differentiated by flavor profile and ingredient composition. Commercially, these soft drinks are widely utilized in retail environments, food service establishments, and as ingredients in beverage processing industries. Their value proposition lies in standardized formulations, consistent carbonation levels, and compliance with food safety regulations, making them highly competitive in international markets. HS Code Classification & Trade Specifications The full HS Code for carbonated soft drinks is 220210, where Chapter 22 covers "Beverages, spirits and vinegar," Heading 2202 denotes "Waters, including mineral waters and aerated waters, containing added sugar or other sweetening matter or flavored," and Subheading 220210 specifically identifies carbonated soft drinks. This classification is based on the presence of added sweetening agents and carbonation, distinguishing these products from still flavored waters or juices. Trade considerations include packaging designed to withstand internal pressure from carbonation, typically employing hermetically sealed containers with pressure ratings up to 6 bar. Preservation methods involve refrigeration and the use of preservatives in accordance with Codex Alimentarius standards to maintain product integrity during transit. Shipping requirements adhere to temperature controls and protection from UV exposure to prevent degradation of flavor and carbonation. Quality standards align with international food safety certifications such as ISO 22000 and compliance with WTO sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures, ensuring seamless customs clearance and conformity with global trade protocols.

Carbonated soft drinks Chapter Note

1.- This Chapter does not cover : (a) Products of this Chapter (other than those of heading 22.09) prepared for culinary purposes and thereby rendered unsuitable for consumption as beverages (generally heading 21.03); (b) Sea water (heading 25.01); (c) Distilled or conductivity water or water of similar purity (heading 28.53); (d) Acetic acid of a concentration exceeding 10 % by weight of acetic acid (heading 29.15); (e) Medicaments of heading 30.03 or 30.04; or (f) Perfumery or toilet preparations (Chapter 33). 2.- For the purposes of this Chapter and of Chapters 20 and 21, the “alcoholic strength by volume” shall be determined at a temperature of 20 C. 3.- For the purposes of heading 22.02, the term “non-alcoholic beverages” means beverages of an alcoholic strength by volume not exceeding 0.5 % vol. Alcoholic beverages are classified in headings 22.03 to 22.06 or heading 22.08 as appropriate.