Inulin

HS code 110820 covers inulin, a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in various plants. Inulin is a valuable ingredient in the food and pharmaceutical industries, with applications ranging from dietary supplements to prebiotic food additives. As a versatile carbohydrate, inulin plays a significant role in the global economy, particularly within the agricultural and health-conscious consumer markets.

Inulin is primarily extracted from the roots of plants such as chicory, Jerusalem artichoke, and dahlia. The production process typically involves harvesting the plant roots, washing, and then extracting the inulin through a series of mechanical and chemical processes. These may include slicing, drying, milling, and purification steps to obtain the desired purity and quality of the final inulin product.

The main inputs required for the inulin industry include the raw plant materials, such as chicory or Jerusalem artichoke roots, as well as processing equipment like slicers, dryers, and purification systems. Energy sources, such as electricity or natural gas, are also necessary for the various stages of production. Additionally, the industry may rely on chemical reagents and solvents for the extraction and purification of inulin.

The primary output of the inulin industry is the inulin powder or extract, which is then used as an ingredient in a wide range of food, beverage, and pharmaceutical products. Inulin is commonly used as a dietary fiber, a prebiotic, and a sugar substitute. It may be found in 190190 Bakery Products, 210690 Other Food Preparations, and 300490 Other Medicaments, among other product categories.