Sorbitan monostearate is an ester of sorbitan (a sorbitol derivative) and stearic acid and is sometimes referred to as a synthetic wax.[1]

Uses

Sorbitan monostearate is used in the manufacture of food and healthcare products as a non-ionic surfactant with emulsifying, dispersing, and wetting properties.[citation needed] It is also employed to create synthetic fibers, metal machining fluid, and as a brightener in the leather industry. Sorbitans are also known as "Spans".

Sorbitan monostearate has been approved by the European Union for use as a food additive (emulsifier) (E number: E 491).[2] It is also approved for use by the British Pharmacopoeia.[3]

See also

References

  1. ^ Ingredients – Sorbitan Monostearate at sci-toys.com
  2. ^ Current EU approved additives and their E Numbers, Food Standards Agency, 26 November 2010
  3. ^ The British Pharmacopoeia Secretariat (2009). "Index, BP 2009" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 11 April 2009. Retrieved 18 March 2010.