emulsifier INS 494

Sorbitan monooleate E494

non-ionic surfactant — Primarily synthetic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Sorbitan monooleate

CAS: 1338-43-8

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 monooleate 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 oleic acid, typically derived from vegetable oils like olive, sunflower, or canola oil.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Emulsifier in creams and lotions

Medical

Emulsifier in ointments

Industrial

Corrosion inhibitor, lubricant additive

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sorbitan monooleate (E494)?

Sorbitan monooleate (E494) is a emulsifier used in food products. It is non-ionic surfactant and synthetic. A synthetic emulsifier made from sorbitan and oleic acid (unsaturated C18 fatty acid). Liquid at room temperature due to unsaturated fatty acid chain.

What is the ADI for Sorbitan monooleate?

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

Sorbitan monooleate is used in various food categories including Cocoa and chocolate products, Fat emulsions. It is used as a emulsifier in these products.

Is Sorbitan monooleate the same as Span 80?

Yes, Sorbitan monooleate is also known as Span 80, SMO. These are different names for the same substance.