2912.42.00.00 - Ethylvanillin (3-Ethoxy-4-hydroxybenzaldehyde)

This HTS classification covers ethylvanillin, a synthetic aromatic aldehyde chemically known as 3-ethoxy-4-hydroxybenzaldehyde. It is primarily used as a flavoring agent, often serving as a substitute for vanillin due to its similar but more potent aroma and flavor profile. The distinguishing feature of ethylvanillin is the presence of an ethoxy group (-OCH2CH3) attached to the benzene ring, replacing the methoxy group (-OCH3) found in vanillin.

Ethylvanillin (2912.42.00.00) is distinct from its sibling category, Vanillin (2912.41.00.00), which specifically refers to 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde. While both are aldehyde-based compounds used for flavoring, the chemical structure, specifically the alkoxy substituent, dictates their separate classification. This distinction is critical for accurate tariff application and regulatory compliance.

As this HTS code represents a leaf node, there are no further subcategories within 2912.42.00.00. Classification under this heading is therefore precise, covering only ethylvanillin itself. When encountering substances intended for similar flavoring purposes, careful examination of their chemical structure is necessary to confirm if they fall under ethylvanillin or a related, but distinct, HTS code.