Overview
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Chemical IdentitySorbitan Monopalmitate (E495 / INS 495), CAS 26266-57-9, Span 40. A nonionic food emulsifier produced from palmitic acid and sorbitol-derived polyols.
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Appearance & PropertiesLight cream to tan beads, flakes or waxy solid | Typical HLB: 6.7
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★ Primary Application (Food Emulsification)Fat Emulsification & Structuring. Sorbitan Monopalmitate is a lipophilic emulsifier used in permitted food formulations. It can help manage oil–water interfaces and fat-phase behavior, particularly when combined with more hydrophilic emulsifiers.
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Solubility & HandlingInsoluble in cold water but dispersible in warm water. Its waxy physical form and congealing range of approximately 45–47°C should be considered when selecting mixing and processing conditions.
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Key FunctionsEmulsification, Co-Emulsification, Fat-Phase Modification & Interfacial Stabilization.
KOSHER CERTIFICATION
HALAL CERTIFICATION
Quality Certified
ISO 9001
Molecular Structure
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Structural Components● Hydrophilic Backbone: Sorbitol-derived and anhydrosorbitol-derived structures containing residual hydroxyl groups that contribute to polar interactions.● Hydrophobic Moiety: Palmitic acid-derived C16 saturated fatty acid chains attached through ester linkages, providing affinity for oil and fat phases.● Commercial Composition: A mixture of related partial esters rather than a single pure molecular species.
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★ Mechanism of ActionLipophilic Interfacial Activity. The palmitate chains interact with oil phases while the hydroxyl-containing backbone contributes polar character. This amphiphilic structure allows Sorbitan Monopalmitate to adsorb at oil–water interfaces and function as a lipophilic emulsifier or co-emulsifier. Its performance depends on the formulation and processing conditions.
Structural Note: The illustration shows a representative sorbitan monopalmitate structure. Commercial E495 contains a mixture of partial esters of sorbitol and its anhydrides with palmitic acid.
Specifications
Product Characteristics
Sorbitan Monopalmitate (E495) is a nonionic, lipophilic food emulsifier with a typical HLB value of approximately 6.7. It generally occurs as a light-colored waxy solid, is insoluble in cold water and can be dispersed in warm water. Its physical form and emulsifying properties make it suitable for evaluation in selected fat-containing food formulations and emulsifier blends.
Specification Reference
The parameters below are intended for preliminary technical evaluation. Final specifications, analytical methods and batch-specific results should be verified against the supplier’s Technical Data Sheet (TDS), Certificate of Analysis (COA) and applicable food additive purity requirements.
| Test Item | Unit | Minimum Value | Maximum Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| HLB vlue | —— | 6.7 | |
| Saponification Value | mgKOH/g | 140 | 155 |
| Hydroxyl Value | mgKOH/g | 270 | 305 |
| Acid Value | mgKOH/g | — | 7 |
| Moisture | % | — | 1.5 |
| Saturated Fatty Acid | % | 63 | 71 |
| Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid | % | 33 | 38 |
| Sulfated Ash | % | — | 0.5 |
| Phosphorus | mg/kg | — | 3 |
| Lead | mg/kg | — | 2 |
Applications
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Bakery Products & PremixesSorbitan Monopalmitate can be used as an emulsifying component in permitted bakery formulations, including selected cakes, fine bakery products and premixes. It may help manage fat dispersion and interfacial behavior in batter systems. Effects on aeration, crumb structure and finished-product volume should be established through formulation trials.
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Whipped Toppings & Cream AnaloguesMay serve as a co-emulsifier in selected non-dairy toppings, whipped products and cream analogue formulations. Emulsion stability, whipping performance and foam retention depend on the complete emulsifier system, fat composition and processing conditions.
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Fat Emulsions & SpreadsCan support emulsification and fat-phase management in selected spreads and fat-containing products. Sorbitan Monopalmitate may also be used with compatible emulsifiers to adjust the overall HLB and influence fat crystallization behavior.
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Confectionery Coatings & FillingsIn permitted confectionery applications, it may contribute to the emulsifier system used in fat-based coatings, fillings and related formulations. Texture, viscosity and processing performance must be verified in the finished recipe.
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Dry Yeast & Bakery IngredientsMay be considered in permitted dry yeast and bakery ingredient systems where surface-active properties are required. Any effect on yeast viability, storage stability or rehydration must be validated through product-specific testing.
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★ Food Regulatory & Formulation ConsiderationsE495 / INS 495. Sorbitan Monopalmitate is included in international food additive specifications. Its permitted uses, maximum levels and purity requirements vary by jurisdiction and food category. Manufacturers should verify local regulations and the supplied grade’s documentation before commercial application.
Lipophilic Emulsifier (HLB 6.7)
A typical HLB of 6.7 makes Sorbitan Monopalmitate useful in lipophilic emulsifier systems and compatible co-emulsifier blends.
Fat-Phase Structuring
Its saturated palmitate groups and waxy physical form make it suitable for evaluation in selected fat-containing formulations.
Flexible Emulsifier Blending
Can be combined with more hydrophilic emulsifiers to adjust the overall HLB and interfacial behavior of a formulation.
Warm-Water Dispersibility
Insoluble in cold water but dispersible in warm water. Heating and mixing conditions should be optimized for the intended application.
Storage & Package
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Storage ConditionsStore Sorbitan Monopalmitate (Span 40) in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. Keep containers tightly closed to minimize moisture exposure and contamination. Protect the product from unsuitable storage conditions that may affect its physical properties.
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TransportationTransport in securely sealed, suitable containers to prevent leakage, packaging damage, or contamination. Follow standard chemical handling procedures and verify transport classification against the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and applicable shipping regulations.
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Standard PackagingSorbitan Monopalmitate (E495 / Span 40) is supplied in securely sealed, chemical-compatible packaging. 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 conditions, 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
