Comparing E492 - Sorbitan tristearate vs E442 - Ammonium phosphatides

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Overview

E492 - Sorbitan tristearate

Sorbitan tristearate (E492) is a food additive used to help oil and water mix and stay mixed. It gives smoother textures and more stable foams and creams in many foods. It is widely used as an emulsifier and stabiliser in the EU.

E442 - Ammonium phosphatides

Ammonium phosphatides (E442) are emulsifiers that help oil and water mix, most often used to improve the flow and smoothness of chocolate and confectionery. They are made from vegetable oils, phosphoric acid, and ammonia, and used in very small amounts to fine‑tune texture.

Synonyms

E492

Sorbitan tristearate

E442

Ammonium phosphatides

Mixed ammonium salts of phosphorylated glycerides

Emulsifier YN

Ammonium phosphatide

Functions

emulsifier stabilizer

emulsifier

Origins

Products

Found in 447 products

Found in 299 products

Search rank & volume

#332420 / mo🇺🇸U.S.

#43680 / mo🇺🇸U.S.

Awareness score

×0.15

under-aware

×0.05

under-aware

Search volume over time

Interest over time for 2 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.

Search history data is not available.

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.