Overview
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Chemical IdentityPolysorbate 80, Polyoxyethylene (20) Sorbitan Monooleate, PEG-20 Sorbitan Oleate, CAS 9005-65-6, INS 433, E433.
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Chemical NatureNonionic surfactant composed of polyoxyethylene derivatives of partial oleic acid esters of sorbitol and sorbitol anhydrides.
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Appearance & PropertiesYellow to orange oily liquid | Typical HLB: 15.0
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★ Primary Application (Food Emulsification)Oil-in-Water Emulsification. Polysorbate 80 reduces interfacial tension and supports the formation of oil-in-water emulsions. In suitable frozen dessert formulations, it can also contribute to controlled fat destabilization during freezing and aeration.
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Raw Material OriginManufactured using oleic acid and sorbitol-derived materials. Vegetable-derived grades are available; raw material origin and dietary suitability should be confirmed through supplier documentation.
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Key FunctionsEmulsification, Solubilization, Interfacial Modification & Dispersion in Compatible Formulations.
KOSHER CERTIFICATION
HALAL CERTIFICATION
Quality Certified
ISO 9001
Molecular Structure
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Structural ComponentsHydrophilic Segment: Polyoxyethylene chains derived from approximately 20 moles of ethylene oxide per mole of sorbitol and its anhydrides, contributing to water affinity and interfacial activity.Hydrophobic Moiety: Predominantly oleic acid-derived ester groups, represented by one C18:1 unsaturated fatty acid chain in the idealized monooleate structure, providing affinity for the oil phase.Backbone: Sorbitol-derived and anhydrosorbitol-derived structures connecting the hydrophilic polyoxyethylene chains and lipophilic fatty acid ester groups.
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★ Mechanism of ActionInterfacial Activity & Solubilization. The amphiphilic structure allows Polysorbate 80 to adsorb at the oil–water interface, reducing interfacial tension and supporting oil-in-water emulsification. It can also assist in solubilizing compatible lipophilic ingredients in aqueous systems, depending on formulation conditions.
Structural Note: Polysorbate 80 is a commercial mixture of related ethoxylated fatty acid esters. Molecular diagrams illustrate a representative structure rather than the exact composition of every molecule.
Specifications
Product Characteristics
Polysorbate 80 (E433) is a yellow to orange oily liquid with a typical HLB value of approximately 15.0. It is highly soluble in water and functions as a nonionic emulsifier and solubilizing agent in compatible formulations.
Specification Reference
The technical parameters below are provided for product evaluation. Actual product specifications, test methods and batch results should be verified against the supplier’s Technical Data Sheet (TDS) and Certificate of Analysis (COA).
| Test Parameter | Unit | Min Value | Max Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| HLB value | —— | 15.0 | |
| Saponification Value | mgKOH/g | 45.0 | 55.0 |
| Hydroxyl Value | mgKOH/g | 65.0 | 80.0 |
| Acid Value | mgKOH/g | — | 2 |
| Moisture Content | % | — | 3 |
| Ignition residue | w% | — | 0.25 |
| Oxyethylene group | w% | 65.0 | 69.5 |
| Arsenic | mg/kg | — | 3 |
| Lead | mg/kg | — | 2 |
Applications
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Ice Cream & Frozen DessertsPolysorbate 80 can promote controlled fat destabilization during freezing and aeration, contributing to the development of the fat network in ice cream. This may influence texture, air-cell structure and melting characteristics, depending on formulation and processing conditions.
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Beverages & Flavor SystemsPolysorbate 80 can assist in dispersing or solubilizing compatible flavor oils and other lipophilic ingredients in aqueous systems. Clarity and long-term stability depend on ingredient compatibility, concentration and processing conditions. Food use is subject to local regulatory authorization.
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Sauces, Dressings & CondimentsIn compatible oil-in-water formulations, Polysorbate 80 may support oil dispersion and emulsion stability. Suitability for a specific sauce, dressing or condiment must be evaluated alongside the applicable food additive permissions.
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Selected Bakery & Confectionery ProductsPolysorbate 80 may be evaluated as an emulsifier or dispersing agent in selected bakery and confectionery formulations where permitted. Effects on product structure and processing performance require application-specific testing.
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Functional PerformanceAs a high-HLB nonionic surfactant, Polysorbate 80 supports oil-in-water emulsification, interfacial modification and solubilization. Performance depends on the oil phase, ingredient interactions, dosage and manufacturing process.
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★ Regulatory & Formulation ConsiderationsVerify Permitted Uses. Food additive authorizations and maximum use levels vary by jurisdiction and food category. For the U.S. market, consult 21 CFR §172.840 and other applicable provisions. Application trials and supplier documentation should be used to confirm formulation performance and product suitability.
High-HLB O/W Emulsification
With a typical HLB of 15.0, Polysorbate 80 supports oil-in-water emulsification in compatible food, cosmetic and specialty formulations.
Oil-Phase Dispersion Support
Helps incorporate compatible oil-phase ingredients into aqueous formulations under suitable mixing and processing conditions.
Flexible Emulsifier Blending
Can be combined with compatible low-HLB emulsifiers to adjust the overall HLB balance and optimize selected emulsion systems.
Food Formulation Versatility
Suitable for evaluation in permitted food applications, including selected frozen desserts, sauces and emulsified products, subject to regulatory limits.
Storage & Package
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Storage ConditionsStore Polysorbate 80 (E433) in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and incompatible materials. Keep containers tightly sealed to minimize moisture exposure, oxidation, and contamination. Follow the supplier’s recommended storage temperature and shelf-life conditions.
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TransportationTransport in securely sealed, chemical-compatible containers to prevent leakage, contamination, or packaging damage. Protect the product from excessive heat and unsuitable handling conditions. Verify shipping classification against the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and applicable transport regulations.
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Standard PackagingPolysorbate 80 (E433 / Tween 80) is supplied in securely sealed, chemical-compatible containers suitable for viscous liquid surfactants. Depending on product grade and supplier availability, packaging options may include:
- 25 kg — PE Drum
- 200 kg — Drum
- 1000 kg — IBC Tote
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★ Packaging & Shipping InformationConfirm Before Ordering. Packaging availability, net weight, storage recommendations, and shipping requirements may vary by supplier and product grade. Please contact us for current packaging options, Technical Data Sheet (TDS), Safety Data Sheet (SDS), and shipment details.
25 Kg /drum
200kg/drum
