emulsifier INS 491

Sorbitan monostearate E491

non-ionic surfactant — Primarily synthetic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Sorbitan monostearate

CAS: 1338-41-6

Data verified: 2026-04-04

Factual Regulatory Reference

This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

? Did You Know?

Beyond food, Sorbitan monostearate is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: varies by food category (500-25000 mg/kg) mg/kg

Quantum satis in many categories

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

GRAS for use as emulsifier in various food categories

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 既存添加物

Approved as emulsifier

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

0–25 mg/kg bw/day (for sorbitan esters group)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

not specified (no safety concern at current use levels)

Everyday Perspective

For a 60kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:

Natural Occurrence

This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.

Manufacturing

Method: esterification

Produced by esterifying sorbitol (dehydrated to form sorbitan) with stearic acid derived from vegetable oils or animal fats.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Emulsifier in creams, lotions, and makeup

Medical

Emulsifier in ointments and creams

Industrial

Textile processing, plastics

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sorbitan monostearate (E491)?

Sorbitan monostearate (E491) is a emulsifier used in food products. It is non-ionic surfactant and synthetic. A synthetic emulsifier made from sorbitol and stearic acid. Creates water-in-oil emulsions. Commonly used in combination with polysorbates for optimal emulsification.

What is the ADI for Sorbitan monostearate?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Sorbitan monostearate is 0–25 mg/kg bw/day (for sorbitan esters group) as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.

What foods contain Sorbitan monostearate?

Sorbitan monostearate is used in various food categories including Cocoa and chocolate products, Processed nuts. It is used as a emulsifier in these products.

Is Sorbitan monostearate the same as Span 60?

Yes, Sorbitan monostearate is also known as Span 60, SMS. These are different names for the same substance.