2918.16.10.00 - Gluconic acid

This HTS category specifically covers gluconic acid, a weak organic acid derived from glucose. It encompasses the acid form itself, as well as its salts (such as sodium gluconate and calcium gluconate) and esters. These compounds are widely used in various industries, including food and beverage as a sequestrant and acidifier, in pharmaceuticals as a calcium supplement, and in industrial cleaning applications.

The distinction from its sibling category, 2918.16.50 "Other," is crucial. While both fall under carboxylic acids with an alcohol function, this specific subheading is reserved solely for gluconic acid and its immediate derivatives. The "Other" category is intended for substances that meet the broader description of carboxylic acids with alcohol function but are not specifically identifiable as gluconic acid or its salts and esters.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, classification within 2918.16.10.00 is determined by whether the product is indeed gluconic acid, or a salt or ester thereof. Importers and exporters should ensure that their goods precisely match the chemical identity of gluconic acid or its direct derivatives to correctly utilize this classification.