HS Code for Tartaric acid

Tartaric acid is classified under HS code 2918.12. This code is part of Chapter 29, which covers organic chemicals. Specifically, heading 2918 includes carboxylic acids with additional oxygen functions and their derivatives. Tartaric acid (chemically known as 2,3-dihydroxybutanedioic acid) is a white, crystalline organic acid. It is classified here because it is a carboxylic acid that contains an alcohol function (hydroxyl groups) but does not contain other oxygen functions like aldehydes or ketones. Naturally occurring in many plants, particularly grapes, tartaric acid is a vital chemical in the food industry as an acidulant and in the pharmaceutical industry as an excipient. The classification 2918.12 is specific to the acid itself in its pure form, regardless of its optical isomerism (L-tartaric, D-tartaric, or meso-tartaric acid). Accurate classification is necessary to distinguish this organic acid from other similar hydroxy-acids used in industrial chemistry.

Products Included

• L(+)-Tartaric acid (natural form)
• D(-)-Tartaric acid
• DL-Tartaric acid (racemic acid)
• Meso-tartaric acid
• Anhydrous tartaric acid crystals

Common Misclassification

Tartaric acid is most commonly confused with its salts and esters, which are classified under HS code 2918.13. For example, cream of tartar is a salt and does not belong in 2918.12. It may also be confused with other carboxylic acids like citric acid (2918.14) or lactic acid (2918.11). Because these acids often share similar physical appearances and applications in the food industry, chemical analysis or technical data sheets are required to confirm the correct HS code.

FAQ

What is the HS code for tartaric acid?

The HS code for tartaric acid is 2918.12, which covers carboxylic acids with alcohol function but without other oxygen function.

Is this the same code for cream of tartar?

No, cream of tartar is potassium bitartrate, which is a salt of tartaric acid and is classified under HS code 2918.13.