2918.11 - Lactic acid, its salts and esters:

This HTS category, 2918.11, specifically classifies lactic acid, its salts, and its esters. Lactic acid is an organic acid naturally produced through the fermentation of carbohydrates. Its salts are formed by reacting lactic acid with bases, and its esters are formed by reacting lactic acid with alcohols. These compounds find widespread use in food and beverage production as acidulants and preservatives, in pharmaceuticals, and in the cosmetics industry.

While this heading is within the broader group of carboxylic acids with alcohol function, it is distinct from its sibling categories which cover other specific organic acids such as tartaric acid (2918.12) and citric acid (2918.14), and their respective salts and esters. The classification here is strictly limited to the compounds derived from lactic acid.

Under this heading, further subdivision exists to differentiate between pure lactic acid itself (2918.11.10.00) and other forms, including its various salts and esters (2918.11.51.00). This distinction allows for more precise tariff application based on the specific chemical form of the lactic acid derivative being imported or exported.