U.S. imports of Inulin (SITC 59216) totaled $6.3M in August 2026, imported from 11 countries.
Importers of Inulin paid $731K in duties in August 2026, an average duty rate of 11.55% — duty actually collected as a share of the imports that cleared customs, not the published tariff schedule. Inulin imports of $6.3M in August 2026 ran 10% below the year-to-date monthly average of $7.1M.
Last updated: August 2026 dataInulin is a fructan-type polysaccharide extracted primarily from chicory root, functioning as a prebiotic dietary fiber and fat replacer in functional foods, dairy products, and nutritional supplements. Its bifidogenic properties — selectively stimulating beneficial gut bacteria — have driven strong demand growth in the health food and nutraceutical sectors. Belgium and the Netherlands, home to major chicory processing operations, are the principal global suppliers. As a food ingredient, inulin imports are subject to FDA review, and importers should confirm GRAS status and labeling compliance for their specific application.
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115 import shipments a month
Inulin derived from chicory root has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status for use in a range of food applications in the US. However, the specific application, concentration, and food matrix can affect compliance, and FDA labeling rules for dietary fiber claims apply. Importers and formulators should consult a regulatory specialist to confirm admissibility and label compliance for their intended use.
Unlike conventional starches, inulin is not digestible by human enzymes and contributes minimal calories, which is why it is classified and marketed as a dietary fiber rather than a carbohydrate thickener. This functional distinction drives a separate supply chain — primarily from chicory processors — and a different pricing dynamic compared to commodity starches like corn or potato starch.
Basic heading 297 of 465 in section 5
Basic heading 59216 · $6.3M of $27.5B
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Imports · August 2026
origin
Chile and Mexico together supply 70% of it. China pays 40.1% duty; Mexico 0.0%.
customs district
Census does not publish district detail for this classification system.
destination
Census does not publish state detail for this classification system.
entry
Census does not publish port detail for this classification system.
ImportsExports
Imports
$6.3MYoY · free account
Exports
$280KYoY · free account
12-mo low · imports
Low · free accountOver the twelve months to August 2026, the U.S. imported $82.9M of Inulin and exported $5.5M.
Through August 2026. Source: U.S. Census Bureau.