Buyer's guide
Common grades and specifications
- Lecithin (soy, sunflower, rapeseed): liquid, de-oiled powder, hydrolysed
- Mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids (E471) and distilled monoglycerides
- Polyglycerol esters, sorbitan esters, polysorbates, DATEM, SSL
- Source must be stated: vegetable, synthetic or mineral. Animal-fat-derived emulsifiers are not accepted.
Typical packaging
Lecithin in drums or IBCs; powders and beads in 25 kg bags or cartons.
Typical minimum order
Commonly from one pallet to one container.
HS code (4-digit headings)
| Heading | Description |
|---|---|
| 2923 | Quaternary ammonium salts; lecithins and other phosphoaminolipids |
| 3824 | Chemical products n.e.s. (many E471-type products) |
| 3404 | Artificial waxes and prepared waxes (some glyceride products) |
Guidance only. The exact 6- to 10-digit code depends on the product and the importing country's tariff. Confirm with your customs broker.
Incoterms tips
For containerised goods, FCA, CPT or CIP are usually a better fit than FOB/CIF, because the seller hands over at a terminal or warehouse rather than over the ship's rail. Use DAP or DDP only if the seller can really handle delivery (and, for DDP, import clearance) in your country.
Quality documents to request
- COA and specification
- Raw-material source statement
- Non-GMO / allergen statement
- SDS
Sourcing notes
Plant, synthetic or mineral sources only. E471 and similar from unknown or animal sources is rejected.