What It Is and What Export of It Is
Ox gallstones are hard deposits found in the gallbladder of cattle. They are typically by-products from abattoirs and meat processing facilities. Gallstones vary in size, color, and purity, with the highest quality being whole, dry, and golden-yellow stones.
Export of ox gallstones involves collection during slaughter, careful cleaning, drying, grading, and packaging for international buyers. They are highly sought after in pharmaceutical and traditional medicine markets, especially in Asia.
Uses of Gallstones
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Pharmaceutical Industry:
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Used as raw materials in the preparation of some medicines.
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Traditional Medicine (Asia, especially China & Japan):
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Believed to aid in detoxification, fever reduction, and liver health.
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Used in the treatment of hepatitis, gallbladder conditions, and certain infections.
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Research & Chemical Industry:
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Used in laboratory formulations and studies.
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Export Specifications
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Purity: High-grade stones are free from impurities and dirt.
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Form: Whole stones are preferred over crushed or powdered.
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Moisture Content: Fully dried (≤ 5%).
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Color: Golden yellow to reddish-brown.
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Weight: Sold in grams (g) or kilograms (kg).
Packaging for Export
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Packed in airtight, sterile containers (glass or plastic).
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Export cartons lined with protective material to avoid contamination.
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Label must include:
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Product name (Ox Gallstones)
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Net weight
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Quality grade (whole/fragmented/powder)
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Batch/lot number
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HS Code
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HS Code
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0510.00.00 – Ambergris, castoreum, civet, musk; cantharides; bile, dried or prepared; glands and other animal products for organo-therapeutic uses (including ox gallstones).
Major Importing Countries
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Asia: China, Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea, Singapore
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Europe: Germany, UK, France, Netherlands
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North America: USA, Canada
Export Value & Market Demand
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The global gallstone trade is a niche but highly profitable market.
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Asian countries (especially China) account for over 80% of demand due to traditional medicine usage.
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Whole, large, and golden-colored stones attract the highest premium.
Tip for Exporters:
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Only licensed exporters with proper veterinary and phytosanitary clearance should handle gallstones.
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Buyers usually demand purity certificates and proper documentation.
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Whole, large, golden stones command much higher value compared to powdered or mixed-quality gallstones.
