emulsifier INS 493

Sorbitan monolaurate E493

non-ionic surfactant — Primarily synthetic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Sorbitan monolaurate

CAS: 1338-39-2

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 monolaurate 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 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 lauric acid, typically derived from coconut or palm kernel oil.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Emulsifier in lotions and creams

Medical

Emulsifier in formulations

Industrial

Textile processing

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sorbitan monolaurate (E493)?

Sorbitan monolaurate (E493) is a emulsifier used in food products. It is non-ionic surfactant and synthetic. A synthetic emulsifier made from sorbitan and lauric acid (C12 fatty acid). More hydrophilic than stearate versions due to shorter fatty acid chain.

What is the ADI for Sorbitan monolaurate?

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

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

Is Sorbitan monolaurate the same as Span 20?

Yes, Sorbitan monolaurate is also known as Span 20, SML. These are different names for the same substance.