Ingredient · E491

The Following: Sorbitan Monostearate

Source
Unknown
Not yet classified by editors
Allergen
No
Role in food
It functions as an emulsifier, helping to blend oil and water-based ingredients in foods. …

This entry is a label phrase. See the main ingredient page: Sorbitan Monostearate.

What is The Following: Sorbitan Monostearate?

Sorbitan monostearate is a non-ionic surfactant made from sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) and stearic acid (a fatty acid). It is typically produced by reacting sorbitol with stearic acid, often derived from vegetable sources like palm oil.

Is The Following: Sorbitan Monostearate gluten-free?

It does not contain gluten.

Is The Following: Sorbitan Monostearate a major allergen?

Sorbitan monostearate is not derived from any of the nine major allergens.

What is The Following: Sorbitan Monostearate used for?

It functions as an emulsifier, helping to blend oil and water-based ingredients in foods.

Is The Following: Sorbitan Monostearate safe?

Sorbitan monostearate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as an emulsifier.

Why it's used

It functions as an emulsifier, helping to blend oil and water-based ingredients in foods. This improves texture and prevents separation in products like baked goods, ice cream, and confectionery.

Health notes

Sorbitan monostearate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as an emulsifier. Regulatory bodies like JECFA have evaluated it. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects at typical consumption levels.

Allergen info

Sorbitan monostearate is not derived from any of the nine major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Foods that contain The Following: Sorbitan Monostearate

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.