Chocolate and other food preparations containing cocoa; in blocks, slabs or bars, (not filled), weighing 2kg or less

HS code 180632 covers a wide range of chocolate and cocoa-based food preparations, including solid chocolate bars, slabs, and blocks weighing 2 kilograms or less. This industry is a crucial component of the global confectionery and snack food sectors, catering to the growing consumer demand for high-quality, indulgent chocolate products. As a highly versatile and widely-consumed commodity, the products under this code play a significant role in the international trade of food and beverage items.

The production of chocolate and cocoa-based food preparations under HS code 180632 typically involves a multi-step process. Key steps include the roasting and grinding of cocoa beans to produce cocoa liquor or paste, the addition of other ingredients such as sugar, milk solids, and flavorings, and the tempering and molding of the final chocolate mixture into the desired shapes and sizes. Automated machinery and precise temperature and humidity controls are essential for ensuring consistent quality and texture throughout the manufacturing process.

The main inputs required for the production of HS code 180632 products include cocoa beans, sugar, milk solids, and various flavorings and additives. Specialized equipment such as roasters, grinders, conches, and tempering machines are also crucial for the efficient and high-quality production of these chocolate-based items. Additionally, packaging materials, such as wrappers, boxes, and labels, are necessary to protect and market the final products.

The primary outputs of HS code 180632 are solid chocolate bars, slabs, and blocks, which can be further processed or consumed directly. These chocolate products may be used as ingredients in a wide range of other food preparations, such as 180690 Chocolate and other food preparations containing cocoa, n.e.s., 190190 Food preparations of flour, groats, meal, starch or malt extract, n.e.s.; food preparations of goods of headings 0401 to 0404, n.e.s., and 210690 Food preparations not elsewhere specified or included, among others. The versatility and popularity of these chocolate-based items make them a significant contributor to the global confectionery and snack food industries.