E491: Sorbitan monostearate
What is E491?
Sorbitan monostearate (E491) is an emulsifier formed by combining sorbitol, a sugar alcohol, with stearic acid. It is a waxy, cream-coloured solid that helps oil and water mix.
Origin and production
It is made by heating sorbitol so that it forms sorbitan and then reacting it with stearic acid, which may be obtained from vegetable oils or animal fats.
Why is it used?
It is used in active dry yeast to help the yeast rehydrate, in cake mixes and pastries to improve texture and volume, and in coatings, toppings and some frozen foods. It also appears on certain snacks.
Vegan, vegetarian and halal
Because the stearic acid may come from plant or animal fats, its suitability for vegans, vegetarians, halal or kosher diets depends on the source, which the manufacturer or a certification label can confirm.
Safety and regulation
Sorbitan esters are authorised in the EU with maximum levels and were re-evaluated by EFSA, which identified a risk of exceeding the acceptable daily intake for some population groups.
Written by the Foodlas editorial team with AI assistance and checked against EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 and EFSA scientific opinions. Last reviewed: October 14, 2026.
Sources: Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 · EFSA — Food additives · Wikidata
Common in
Products containing E491
