Sorbic Acid
Sorbic acid is an unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acid (hexa-2,4-dienoic acid) used primarily as a food preservative. It qualifies under HTS 2916.19.30.00 as a chemically defined unsaturated straight-chain monocarboxylic acid per Chapter 29 note (a). Effective against mold and yeast in food applications.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Rate | Ch.99 Surcharges | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | 6.1% | +25.0% | 31.1% |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | 6.1% | — | 6.1% |
| 🇨🇦Canada | 6.1% | — | 6.1% |
| 🇩🇪Germany | 6.1% | — | 6.1% |
| 🇯🇵Japan | 6.1% | — | 6.1% |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If as sorbic acid salts
Salts of unsaturated acids classify separately under same heading per Chapter 29 salt rules.
If prepared food additive blends
Mixtures containing sorbic acid with stabilizers classify as prepared chemical products.
If used as synthetic dye intermediate
Certain unsaturated acids used in dye production shift to Chapter 32 coloring matter.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• FDA prior notice required for food use; provide GRAS affirmation and purity certificate
• Classify as acid, not salt - potassium sorbate goes to 2916.19.50.00
• Common misclassification under 2916.19.10 if mistaken for acrylic derivatives
Related Products under HTS 2916.19.30.00
Linoleic Acid
Linoleic acid is a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid with two double bonds in an 18-carbon chain, qualifying as an unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acid. Classified under HTS 2916.19.30.00 per Chapter 29 notes for separate chemically defined organic compounds. Essential in nutritional supplements and skin care formulations.
10-Undecenoic Acid
10-Undecenoic acid, identical to undecylenic acid, is an 11-carbon unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acid with antifungal properties. HTS 2916.19.30.00 applies as it fits the chemical definition excluding specific enumerated acids. Common in pharmaceutical creams.
Myristoleic Acid
Myristoleic acid is a C14:1 omega-5 mono-unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acid found in fish oils. It qualifies under HTS 2916.19.30.00 as a separate chemically defined unsaturated acid. Used in biochemical research and cosmetics.
Palmitoleic Acid
Palmitoleic acid (C16:1 n-7) is an unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acid prevalent in macadamia oil. Classifies under HTS 2916.19.30.00 meeting Chapter 29 purity and definition criteria. Applied in skincare for moisturizing properties.
Alpha-Eleostearic Acid
Alpha-eleostearic acid is a conjugated tri-unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acid from tung oil. Despite conjugation, it remains classified under HTS 2916.19.30.00 as an unsaturated acyclic acid. Used in drying oils and polymers.
Ricinenic Acid
Ricinenic acid is an acetylated derivative of ricinoleic acid, functioning as an unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acid. HTS 2916.19.30.00 applies as it retains the unsaturated acyclic structure per Chapter notes. Used in chemical synthesis.