Classification
Product TypeIngredient
Product FormPowder
Industry PositionFood Additive (Anti-caking agent / carrier)
Market
Amorphous silicon dioxide (INS 551) is listed in Vietnam’s permitted food additive framework under Circular 24/2019/TT-BYT, including functional use as an anti-caking agent, antifoaming agent, and carrier. Vietnam is a net importer of silicon dioxide under HS 281122, with imports in 2023 materially exceeding exports, so food-grade supply is typically import-reliant even though Vietnam also exports HS 281122. Market access hinges on using INS 551 only for permitted food categories and within maximum levels/GMP conditions stated in the Circular. For domestic circulation, importers commonly rely on the Decree 15/2018/ND-CP self-declaration pathway supported by recent ISO 17025 testing and documentation. Logistics is generally containerized sea freight for moisture-sensitive powder packaging, with landed cost exposed to freight-rate volatility.
Market RoleNet importer with limited export activity (HS 281122)
Domestic RoleB2B ingredient used by domestic food manufacturers in dry/powdered formulations and processing aids where permitted
Specification
Physical Attributes- White to off-white, free-flowing powder (typical for food-grade amorphous silica)
- Strong moisture sensitivity in handling (requires dry, moisture-barrier packaging to preserve flowability)
Compositional Metrics- INS: 551; CAS: 7631-86-9
- Amorphous, synthetically produced; common manufacturing forms include fumed (pyrogenic) silica and wet-process precipitated silica/silica gel (specification frameworks commonly reference JECFA)
Grades- Food-grade amorphous silicon dioxide (INS 551) for permitted applications and limits in Vietnam
- Non-food/industrial silica may trade under the same HS heading and is not a substitute for food-additive-grade compliance
Packaging- Moisture-barrier bags (often multiwall paper with inner liner) or sealed drums for food-grade distribution
- Bulk FIBC/jumbo bags used in broader industrial trade where appropriate handling controls exist
Supply Chain
Value Chain- Overseas producer (common origins include China/India/Japan/Thailand/Korea by HS 281122 trade) → Vietnam importer/distributor → incoming QA (CoA + contaminant testing) → food manufacturer blending/processing → finished foods placed on market under applicable Vietnam food safety rules
Temperature- Ambient transport and storage; protect from moisture to prevent caking and loss of flow
Atmosphere Control- Moisture control and dust-control practices are important during repacking and blending operations
Shelf Life- Generally long shelf-life when kept sealed and dry; quality risk is primarily moisture pickup and contamination during handling
Freight IntensityMedium
Transport ModeSea
Risks
Regulatory Compliance HighIf amorphous silicon dioxide (INS 551) is supplied for an unpermitted food category, exceeds the applicable maximum level/GMP conditions, or lacks compliant self-declaration/testing documentation, the product can be blocked from lawful circulation and may face detention or rejection during compliance checks.Map intended end uses to Circular 24/2019/TT-BYT provisions for INS 551 and compile a Decree 15/2018/ND-CP self-declaration dossier with ISO 17025 test results and a CoA before shipment.
Food Safety MediumContaminant risk (e.g., heavy metals or non-conforming impurities) and grade-mismatch risk (industrial silica presented as food additive) can trigger non-compliance and buyer rejection.Require CoA identifying INS 551 (amorphous) and verify specification and contaminant testing against recognized additive specifications (e.g., JECFA) using an ISO 17025 lab.
Logistics MediumMoisture ingress and rough handling during sea freight and inland distribution can cause caking and loss of flowability, leading to quality claims and rework costs.Use moisture-barrier packaging, desiccants where appropriate, and define receiving QC checks (flowability, moisture/Loss on Drying) with clear acceptance criteria.
FAQ
Is amorphous silicon dioxide (INS 551) permitted as a food additive in Vietnam?Yes. Vietnam’s Circular 24/2019/TT-BYT includes “Dioxyd silic vô định hình” (Silicon dioxide, amorphous; INS 551) in the permitted food additive list, with use conditions defined by food category and maximum levels or GMP provisions.
What is the main compliance step for importing food additives like INS 551 for domestic circulation in Vietnam?A key step is preparing a product self-declaration dossier under Decree 15/2018/ND-CP, including a self-declaration form and recent food safety test results from a designated or ISO/IEC 17025-compliant laboratory, and ensuring the intended uses match Circular 24/2019/TT-BYT.
What functions does Vietnam recognize for amorphous silicon dioxide (INS 551)?In the permitted list under Circular 24/2019/TT-BYT, INS 551 is recognized for functions including anti-caking, antifoaming, and as a carrier.