Cocoa Shells and Husks
Cocoa shells and husks are the outer coverings and residual material from cocoa beans and pods. They are classified as cocoa waste and are used as a by‑product material in various applications.
Prices, specifications and international trade for cocoa shells and husks under HS 180200.
Cocoa Shells and Husks Price
Published reference · Jun 1, 2026
Cocoa shells and husks is quoted in USD/t at CIV. Historical customs values may differ from the headline reference.
Explore cocoa shells and husks pricesCocoa Shells and Husks Suppliers
Find cocoa shells and husks suppliers and exporters for your specification, buying volume and preferred origin. Explore supplier locations, compare sourcing requirements and request a shortlist.
Explore cocoa shells and husks suppliersCocoa Shells and Husks Exports and Imports
Côte d’Ivoire led reported cocoa shells and husks exports in 2025, at $1.1B.
Compare cocoa shells and husks exporting countriesCocoa Shells and Husks Specifications and Quality
Cocoa shells and husks grading factors include Moisture content, Foreign material content, and Particle size distribution.
Grading Factors
Quality assessment for cocoa shells and husks considers Moisture content, Foreign material content, and Particle size distribution.
- Moisture content
Lower moisture reduces the risk of mould growth and spoilage during storage, preserving the shells' quality for feed or other uses.
- Foreign material content
The presence of stones, metal, or other contaminants affects the safety and usability of the shells, especially in food-contact or feed applications.
- Particle size distribution
Consistent particle size ensures uniform handling and processing, whether the shells are ground for feed or used as a soil conditioner.
- Mould and mycotoxin levels
High mould or mycotoxin levels can render the shells unsuitable for animal feed or other sensitive uses, making this a critical quality parameter.
Common Defects
Recorded defects for cocoa shells and husks include Mould contamination, Excessive dust, and Admixed bean fragments.
- Mould contamination
Visible mould growth, often caused by high moisture during storage, can lead to mycotoxin formation and off-odours, making the shells unsafe for feed.
- Excessive dust
High dust content can cause handling issues and may indicate over-processing, reducing the shells' value for certain applications.
- Admixed bean fragments
Presence of broken cocoa bean pieces can be a quality issue if the buyer requires pure shells, as it affects the product's consistency and end-use performance.
Cocoa Shells and Husks Facts and HS Code
Cocoa shells and husks belongs to cocoa within softs and tropicals. Its customs classification covers HS 180200.
Cocoa Shells and Husks HS Code
| Also known as | cocoa husks, cocoa skins, cocoa waste |
|---|---|
| Product type | Raw |
| Form | Dried |
| Position in the chain | By product |
| Category | Cocoa — Softs and tropicals |
| HS codes | 180200 |
| HS6 description | Cocoa; shells, husks, skins and other cocoa waste |
| Quoted in | USD/t |
| Reference location | CIV |
Production & Handling
Cocoa shells and husks storage guidance: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, protected from moisture and pests. Keep the shells in sealed or breathable packaging to prevent moisture absorption, which can lead to mould growth and spoilage.
Production and Storage
| Perishability | Low |
|---|---|
| Temperature regime | Ambient |
| Storage conditions | Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, protected from moisture and pests. Keep the shells in sealed or breathable packaging to prevent moisture absorption, which can lead to mould growth and spoilage. |
| Processing steps |
|
Packaging
Typical cocoa shells and husks packaging includes Jute or polypropylene bags, Bulk bags (FIBC), and Compressed bales.
- Jute or polypropylene bags
Used for smaller lots, allowing easy handling and sampling, and protecting the shells from moisture and pests.
- Bulk bags (FIBC)
Suitable for larger volumes, reducing handling costs and improving logistics efficiency for industrial buyers.
- Compressed bales
Used to reduce volume for transport, especially for long-distance shipping, improving storage density and reducing freight costs.
Uses & Risks
Cocoa shells and husks is used in Animal feed ingredient, Soil amendment and mulch, and Biofuel and biomass.
End Uses
- Animal feed ingredient
The shells are ground and added to livestock feed as a source of fiber and some nutrients, contributing to digestive health in ruminants and other animals.
- Soil amendment and mulch
The shells are applied to soil to improve structure, aeration, and water retention, and their gradual decomposition adds organic matter.
- Biofuel and biomass
The shells are burned or gasified to generate heat and power, providing a renewable energy source from a by-product.
- Extraction of bioactive compounds
The shells contain compounds like polyphenols and theobromine, which can be extracted for use in nutraceuticals or cosmetics.
- Activated carbon production
The shells can be carbonized and activated to produce activated carbon used in filtration and purification applications.
Uses and Related Commodities
| Downstream industries | Animal feed manufacturing, Agriculture and horticulture, Renewable energy, Nutraceutical and cosmetic extraction, Water treatment and filtration |
|---|
Sourcing risks
| Risk | Mitigation |
|---|---|
Import/export waste controls PolicyMedium Cocoa shells and husks are classified as waste, subject to EU import and export controls requiring specific documentation and compliance with waste regulations. | Prepare and submit the required waste shipment documents in line with Regulation (EU) 2024/1157 and verify tariff codes and duties before trade. |
Cocoa Shells and Husks Questions
- What exactly is classified as cocoa shells and husks?
- Cocoa shells and husks refer to the outer layers removed from cocoa beans, including shells, husks, skins and other cocoa waste generated during processing.
- How should cocoa shells and husks be stored to maintain quality?
- They should be kept in a dry, well‑ventilated environment, protected from moisture and direct sunlight to prevent mold growth and preserve their suitability for feed or fertilizer use.
- What are common uses for cocoa shells and husks?
- The material is typically used as animal feed, a component in compost or soil amendment, and can serve as a source of fiber in various industrial applications.