UNSPSC 53131641: Petroleum jelly

This is a semi solid mixture of hydrocarbons originally promoted as a topical ointment for its healing properties. Its folkloric medicinal value as a cure all has since been limited by better scientific understanding of appropriate and inappropriate uses. However, it is recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as an approved over the counter skin protectant and remains widely used in cosmetic skin care.

UNSPSC 53131641 Petroleum jelly is a Commodity code that captures first aid and medical supply consumables, including topical products, antiseptics, and related items procured by state and local emergency response and healthcare operations. State and local governments buy petroleum jelly and comparable over-the-counter medical supplies primarily through fire departments, rescue services, and public health agencies that maintain first aid kits, emergency response vehicles, and field medical support. The City of Tampa Fire Rescue Department recently solicited a comprehensive medical aid supplies bundle through ITB 25-P-00157, posted April 24, 2026, with response due April 9, 2025, covering 32 line items including antiseptic sprays, hydrogen peroxide, bandages, pain relievers, and emergency blankets with estimated annual quantities ranging from 1 to 2,700 units per item.

Recent activity shows municipal fire and rescue services as the primary buyer of record under this code. The Tampa ITB included set-aside provisions for City-certified Small Local Business Enterprises (SLBEs) with a 5% bid discount capped at $10,000 and Underutilized Woman and Minority Owned Business Enterprises (U-WMBEs) with a 5% discount capped at $20,000, targeting underutilized businesses owned by African American, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, and women business owners. The procurement supported a one-year initial award period with two optional one-year renewals against a $100,000 departmental budget. Submissions required electronic filing through the OpenGov eProcurement Portal and included documentation of business licenses, minority business certification, conflict of interest disclosures, and criminal history screening practices. All medications required a minimum nine-month expiration date from date of acceptance.