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U.S. imports of cocoa shells, husks, skins & other cocoa waste (SITC 07250) totaled $22K in April 2026, traded with 2 countries.
Cocoa Shells, Husks, Skins & Other Cocoa Waste imports of $22K in April 2026 ran 31% above the year-to-date monthly average of $16K.
Last updated: April 2026 dataCocoa shells and husks are the outer teguments removed during cocoa bean roasting and winnowing, while cocoa waste encompasses other by-products of processing such as sweepings and off-grade material. Though classified as waste, cocoa shells have found commercial use as a low-cost mulching material, animal feed ingredient, and source of theobromine extraction, giving this category more commercial relevance than its name implies. FDA entry requirements apply because these materials can enter food and feed supply chains, and importers should be prepared to document intended end use.
AI-written summary of the official U.S. Census Bureau trade figures on this page — verify before relying on it.
Cocoa shells have been used as a feed ingredient, but their theobromine content raises toxicity concerns for certain animals, particularly dogs and horses. If imported for animal feed use, USDA and FDA feed-ingredient regulations may apply in addition to standard customs requirements. Importers should verify the intended use and consult with a licensed customs broker or regulatory specialist before entry.
Beyond animal feed, cocoa shells are used as garden mulch (sold retail as 'cocoa hull mulch'), as a biomass fuel source, and in specialty food applications such as cocoa shell tea. Theobromine extraction for pharmaceutical use is a niche but established application. The specific end use can affect how the product is classified and which regulatory pathways apply at entry.
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| Country | Imports | Exports | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| ECUADOR | $22K | -- | -$22K |
| QATAR | -- | $11K | +$11K |
| DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | -- | -- | -- |
| PERU | -- | -- | -- |
Monthly import values over time