Dairy produce; yoghurt, whether or not concentrated or containing added sugar or other sweetening matter or flavoured or containing added fruit or cocoa

HS code 040310 covers a wide range of dairy products, including yoghurt, whether or not concentrated or containing added sweeteners, flavors, or fruit and cocoa. This industry is a crucial component of the global food and beverage sector, providing essential dairy-based products that are consumed worldwide. Yoghurt, in particular, has become a popular and versatile dairy item, valued for its nutritional benefits and diverse applications in both the retail and food service industries.

The production of yoghurt and other dairy products under HS code 040310 typically involves a fermentation process. Milk, often from cows, is heated and combined with bacterial cultures, which convert the lactose in the milk into lactic acid. This process thickens the milk, resulting in the characteristic yoghurt texture. Depending on the desired final product, additional ingredients such as sweeteners, flavors, or fruit may be added during or after the fermentation stage.

The main inputs required for the production of goods under HS code 040310 include raw milk, which serves as the primary ingredient. Specialized bacterial cultures, as well as processing equipment such as fermentation tanks, pasteurizers, and packaging machinery, are also essential. Depending on the specific product, other inputs may include sugar, fruit, cocoa, and various flavorings.

The primary outputs of the industry covered by HS code 040310 are yoghurt and other dairy products, which can be consumed directly or used as ingredients in a wide range of food and beverage products. These outputs may be further classified under other HS codes, such as 040120 Milk and cream, concentrated or containing added sugar or other sweetening matter and 040410 Whey, whether or not concentrated or containing added sugar or other sweetening matter; products consisting of natural milk constituents, whether or not containing added sugar or other sweetening matter, not elsewhere specified or included.