What is HS code 291550 used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
291550
Acids; saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids; propionic acid, its salts and esters
Heading 2915 — Acids; saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids and their anhydrides, halides, peroxides and peroxyacids; their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives
Chapter 29: Organic chemicals
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 291550 when importing or exporting propionic acid, its salts, or esters. For example, shipments of propionic acid in bulk containers or as part of a chemical production process fall under this code.
This code specifically covers saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids like propionic acid, distinguishing it from similar acids such as acetic acid (HS-6 291511) and butyric acid (HS-6 291552). Each of these acids has unique applications and chemical properties.
Propionic acid is commonly used as a preservative in food products, in the production of herbicides, and as an intermediate in various chemical syntheses. Its salts and esters also find uses in pharmaceuticals and agriculture.
When classifying propionic acid, consider its form—liquid or solid—as well as its intended use. This can affect whether you need to report it as a pure substance or as part of a mixture.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
propionic acid shipments · saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids · HS code 291550 · chemical preservatives · propionic acid esters · agricultural chemicals · food industry chemicals · chemical manufacturing · bulk propionic acid · laboratory chemicals · pharmaceutical intermediates · chemical mixtures · salts of propionic acid · industrial applications · cosmetic ingredients · animal feed additives
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Bulk shipment of propionic acid for chemical manufacturing
- Propionic acid used as a food preservative in packaged goods
- Esters of propionic acid included in cosmetic formulations
- Salts of propionic acid utilized in agricultural applications
- Propionic acid mixed with other acids for industrial processes
- Laboratory samples of propionic acid for research
- Propionic acid derivatives in pharmaceutical products
- Propionic acid in production of animal feed additives
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify propionic acid for import?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
What are the uses of propionic acid?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Is propionic acid a food preservative?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What forms does propionic acid come in?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Are there different types of propionic acid?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How to report propionic acid in customs?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the derivatives of propionic acid?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Related topics
Common real-world topics that come up during code comparison.
How to classify propionic acid and its salts for customs
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Examples of products under HS code 291550
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Uses of propionic acid in food preservation
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Differences between propionic acid and acetic acid
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
What to include in a shipment of propionic acid
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Guidelines for importing propionic acid
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Regulations for shipping propionic acid internationally
Use this as a checklist topic, then confirm legal requirements with your broker or customs advisor.
Understanding propionic acid esters and their applications
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What products fall under HS code 291550?
- HS code 291550 covers propionic acid, its salts, and esters, commonly used in food preservation, agriculture, and chemical synthesis.
- How should I package propionic acid for shipping?
- Propionic acid should be shipped in appropriate chemical containers, clearly labeled, and in compliance with safety regulations.
- Are there any restrictions on importing propionic acid?
- Check with your local customs authority for any specific regulations or restrictions related to the import of propionic acid.
- Can propionic acid be used in food products?
- Yes, propionic acid is used as a preservative in various food products to inhibit mold and bacteria growth.
- What is the difference between propionic acid and butyric acid?
- Propionic acid (HS-6 291550) has a three-carbon chain, while butyric acid (HS-6 291552) has a four-carbon chain, leading to different properties and uses.
- How do I determine the correct HS code for my product?
- Identify the main chemical structure and intended use of your product to find the appropriate HS code, such as 291550 for propionic acid.
- What are the safety considerations for handling propionic acid?
- Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow safety data sheet (SDS) guidelines when handling propionic acid.
- What are the common applications of propionic acid?
- Common applications include use as a food preservative, in agricultural chemicals, and as a chemical intermediate in various manufacturing processes.
Continue classification
Parent context
Nearby siblings
Next best action
Pick one of these actions to move from reading to a defensible classification decision.