2918.15.10.00 - Sodium citrate

This HTS category, 2918.15.10.00, specifically designates sodium citrate. Sodium citrate is the sodium salt of citric acid, commonly encountered as a white crystalline powder or granules. It finds widespread application as a food additive (E331) for flavoring, buffering, and emulsifying, as well as in pharmaceuticals and industrial cleaning agents. Its classification here is based on its chemical structure as a salt derived from citric acid, a carboxylic acid with an alcohol function.

Within the broader heading for "Salts and esters of citric acid," this subcategory is distinct from its sibling, "Other." While "Other" would encompass any remaining salts or esters of citric acid not specifically enumerated, 2918.15.10.00 is reserved exclusively for sodium citrate, irrespective of its specific isomeric form or degree of hydration, provided it is chemically identifiable as a sodium salt of citric acid. This specificity ensures precise classification for this widely traded commodity.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS, there are no further subdivisions. Therefore, the classification of goods under 2918.15.10.00 hinges solely on their identity as sodium citrate. Importers and exporters should ensure documentation accurately reflects this specific chemical compound to avoid classification errors.