emulsifier INS 492

Sorbitan tristearate E492

non-ionic surfactant — Primarily synthetic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Sorbitan tristearate

CAS: 26658-19-5

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 tristearate 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 Approved food additive

Approved for use as emulsifier

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 既存添加物

Part of sorbitan fatty acid esters group

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

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 sorbitan with three molecules of stearic acid under controlled conditions.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Emulsifier in lipsticks and creams

Medical

Emulsifier in topical formulations

Industrial

Lubricant additive, anti-foaming agent

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sorbitan tristearate (E492)?

Sorbitan tristearate (E492) is a emulsifier used in food products. It is non-ionic surfactant and synthetic. A synthetic emulsifier with three stearic acid chains attached to sorbitan. More lipophilic than monostearate, used in water-in-oil emulsions.

What is the ADI for Sorbitan tristearate?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Sorbitan tristearate 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 tristearate?

Sorbitan tristearate is used in various food categories including Cocoa and chocolate products, Batters. It is used as a emulsifier in these products.

Is Sorbitan tristearate the same as Span 65?

Yes, Sorbitan tristearate is also known as Span 65, STS. These are different names for the same substance.