Sorbitan Monostearate (Span 60) – E491 Yeast Protectant & Stabilizer

Overview

  • Chemical Nature
    Non-ionic surfactant derived from sorbitan and stearic acid.
  • Appearance & Specs
    Solid waxy powder  |  HLB Value: 4.7
  • Primary Application (Yeast)
    The “Gold Standard” Additive. Chemically unique for its high melting point. Essential for Instant Active Dry Yeast (IADY) manufacturing.
  • Fat Crystal Modification
    Widely used in chocolate and margarine to prevent oil separation and blooming.
  • Key Functions
    Yeast Protectant & Stabilizer.

Molecular Structure

  • Structural Components
    Hydrophilic Backbone: Sorbitan ring (providing limited hydrophilicity).
    Hydrophobic Moiety: Single stearic acid residue esterified to the ring.
  • Mechanism of Action
    Predominantly Lipophilic. While amphiphilic, the long-chain fatty acid group enhances compatibility with fats and oils. This makes it an effective stabilizer for emulsions and dispersions.

Specifications:

In addition to its basic emulsifying ability, sorbitan monostearate has unique stabilizing and texturizing functions. It regulates fat crystallization, improves aeration in baked products, and enhances the uniformity and smoothness of fat-based systems. It is widely applied in foods requiring controlled fat structure and improved product stability.
Key features include:
  • Cream to pale yellow waxy solid form
  • Odorless or slightly characteristic smell
  • Insoluble in water, but dispersible in oils and fats
  • Stable under normal storage and usage conditions
  • Suitable for use in combination with other emulsifiers to achieve desired HLB values
Test ItemUnitMinimum ValueMaximum Value
HLB value——4.7
Saponification ValuemgKOH/g147157
Iodine ValuemgKOH/g235260
Acid ValuemgKOH/g10
Moisture%1.5
Saturated Fatty Acid%7175
Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid%29.533.5
Phosphorusmg/kg3
Leadmg/kg2

Applications:

  • Instant Dry Yeast: Added before drying to coat yeast cells, regulating moisture loss and ensuring the yeast survives rehydration with high activity.
  • Confectionery & Chocolate: Acts as a crystal modifier to retard “Fat Bloom” (the white haze that forms on chocolate) and improves gloss.
  • Whipped Toppings & Margarine: Provides structure and destabilizes fat to create stiff, stable foams in non-dairy toppings.
  • Cosmetics: Used as a primary Water-in-Oil (W/O) emulsifier for rich, protective creams and barrier ointments.
Dry Yeast Vitality

Span 60 acts as a vital membrane protectant for yeast. It regulates hydration during the critical ‘blooming’ phase, ensuring maximum fermentation power in the final dough.

Anti-Bloom Agent (Chocolate)

By modifying the crystallization of cocoa butter and substitutes, it delays the formation of white fat bloom, extending the visual shelf life and gloss of chocolate coatings.

Solid Stearate Structure

Derived from C18 Stearic Acid, it has a high melting point. This provides exceptional thermal stability and structure-building properties in whipped emulsions and margarines.

HLB 4.7 W/O Emulsifier

A powerful lipophilic emulsifier. When paired with Polysorbate 60 (Tween 60), it creates the optimal HLB balance for highly stable, fine-textured bakery emulsions.

Instant dry yeast granules rehydrating in water, demonstrating the cell-protection function of Sorbitan Monostearate (Span 60).

storage & package:

Storage:
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
Avoid contact with harmful or incompatible substances. Handle with care during transportation to prevent leakage or contamination.

Transportation:
Transport as a general chemical product, following standard safety and handling procedures.

Package:
Sorbitan monostearate is packed in high-quality PE drums with double-seal lids.
Standard packaging sizes include 25kg/drum, 200kg/drum, and 1000kg IBC tote to meet different usage needs.

25 Kg /drum
200kg/drum
1000kg IBC

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