1516.30.00.00 - Microbial fats and oils and their fractions

This HTS subheading, 1516.30.00.00, specifically encompasses microbial fats and oils, along with their fractions. These are lipids derived from microorganisms, distinct from those originating from animals or plants. This category includes such substances whether they have undergone partial or complete hydrogenation, inter-esterification, re-esterification, or elaidinization. The refining process is also permitted within this classification, provided no further preparation has occurred.

It is crucial to differentiate this category from its sibling entries. Subheading 1516.10.00.00 pertains exclusively to animal fats and oils and their fractions, while 1516.20 covers vegetable fats and oils and their fractions. Therefore, the key distinguishing factor for 1516.30.00.00 is the **microbial origin** of the fats and oils. This classification applies to substances like microbial lipids used in food, pharmaceutical, or industrial applications, as long as they meet the processing criteria outlined in the heading.

As a leaf node in the HTS database, 1516.30.00.00 does not have further subdivisions. Classification within this code relies on the accurate identification of the source material as microbial and confirmation that the fats and oils have not undergone further preparation beyond those specified in the parent heading. Examples could include specific lipids produced by yeasts, bacteria, or algae that have been processed as described but are not yet incorporated into finished products or complex mixtures.