Sorbitan monostearate

Definition

Sorbitan monostearate is an ester of sorbitan and stearic acid. Its primary use in food is as an emulsifier. It is used to maintain a suspension of water and oil in a variety of products, and particularly in chocolates to maintain colour and shine. It is also used as a wax coating on produce.

Health considerations

At the levels expected with normal consumption, no negative effects have been attributed to sorbitan monostearate. Animal studies of mice fed extremely high doses for over a year showed no effects related to sorbitan monostearate.

May be found in

Chocolate, chocolate coatings, candies, cake mixes, puddings, cake fillings, coffee creamer, whipped topping, dressings, icings, as a wax coating on produce

References

INRFood
Food and Cosmetics Toxicology

Alternative Spellings and Names

E491