Sodium Stearoyl-2-lactylate

Sodium stearoyl-2-lactylate is a synthetic food additive made from the reaction of lactic acid with stearic acid, a fatty acid found in animal and vegetable fats. It is commonly produced from plant-based sources like palm or coconut oil, but can also be derived from animal fats.

It functions as an emulsifier, dough conditioner, and stabilizer in baked goods and other processed foods. It helps ingredients blend together, improves dough texture and volume, and extends shelf life.

In the U.S., sodium stearoyl-2-lactylate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food additive. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated it and established acceptable daily intake levels. Current research does not indicate adverse health effects at typical consumption levels.