Comparing E492 - Sorbitan tristearate vs E432 - Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate
Overview
Synonyms
Products
Found in 447 products
Found in 105 products
Search rank & volume
Awareness score
Search volume over time
Interest over time for 2 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Interest over time for 6 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Popular questions
How is sorbitan monostearate and sorbitan tristearate different?
Sorbitan monostearate (E491) has one stearate group, while sorbitan tristearate (E492) has three; this makes E492 more hydrophobic (lower HLB) and better for water‑in‑oil/fat stabilization, whereas E491 has a higher HLB and broader emulsifier uses (e.g., bakery).
What is sorbitan tristearate made from?
It’s produced by esterifying sorbitan (from dehydrated sorbitol) with stearic acid, which is typically sourced from vegetable oils (e.g., palm/soy) and can also be from animal fats.
Is polysorbate 20 safe for skin?
Yes—it's widely used in cosmetics and is generally considered safe at typical use levels; regulatory reviews (e.g., Cosmetic Ingredient Review) support its safety, though some people may experience mild irritation or allergy.
What is the cmc of tween 20?
Approximately 0.007% w/v in water (~0.06 mM) at about 25°C; reported values vary with temperature, ionic strength, and formulation.
Is polysorbate 20 safe?
Yes—when used as a food additive within regulatory limits it’s considered safe; authorities such as JECFA have set an ADI of 0–25 mg/kg body weight per day for polysorbates.
Is polysorbate 20 toxic?
It has low toxicity at permitted food and cosmetic use levels; very high doses or parenteral exposure can cause adverse effects, and potential impurities (e.g., ethylene oxide/1,4-dioxane) are tightly controlled.
Is polysorbate 20 natural?
No—it's a synthetic surfactant made by ethoxylating sorbitan and esterifying with lauric acid, so it isn’t considered “natural,” even if some feedstocks are plant-derived.