Overview
-
Chemical IdentitySorbitan Monostearate (E491 / INS 491), CAS 1338-41-6, Span 60. A nonionic food emulsifier derived from edible stearic acid and sorbitol-based polyols.
-
Appearance & PropertiesLight cream to tan beads, flakes or waxy solid | Typical HLB: 4.7
-
★ Primary Application (Food Emulsification)Lipophilic Emulsification & Fat-Phase Stabilization. Sorbitan Monostearate is a low-HLB emulsifier suitable for evaluation in water-in-oil emulsions and compatible emulsifier blends. It can support interfacial stability and influence fat-phase behavior in selected food formulations.
-
Solubility & HandlingInsoluble in cold water but dispersible in warm water. Its waxy form and congealing range of approximately 50–52°C should be considered during formulation and processing.
-
Key FunctionsEmulsification, Co-Emulsification, Fat-Phase Modification & Interfacial Stabilization.
KOSHER CERTIFICATION
HALAL CERTIFICATION
Quality Certified
ISO 9001
Molecular Structure
-
Structural Components● Hydrophilic Backbone: Sorbitol-derived and anhydrosorbitol-derived structures with residual hydroxyl groups that contribute to polar interactions.● Hydrophobic Moiety: Predominantly stearic acid-derived C18 saturated fatty acid chains attached through ester linkages, providing strong affinity for oil and fat phases.● Commercial Composition: A mixture of partial fatty acid esters rather than a single pure molecular species.
-
★ Mechanism of ActionLipophilic Interfacial Activity. The stearate chains interact with oil phases while the hydroxyl-containing backbone provides limited hydrophilic character. This structure allows Sorbitan Monostearate to adsorb at oil–water interfaces and function as a low-HLB emulsifier or co-emulsifier in compatible formulations.
Structural Note: The diagram illustrates a representative sorbitan monostearate molecule. Commercial E491 contains related partial esters of sorbitol and its anhydrides with edible stearic acid.
Specifications
Product Characteristics
Sorbitan Monostearate (E491) is a lipophilic nonionic food emulsifier with a typical HLB value of approximately 4.7. It is generally supplied as light-colored beads, flakes or a waxy solid. Insoluble in cold water but dispersible in warm water, it can be used as an emulsifying component in selected fat-containing food systems and compatible surfactant blends.
Specification Reference
The technical parameters below are provided for preliminary product evaluation. Final specifications, analytical methods and batch-specific results should be confirmed using the supplier’s Technical Data Sheet (TDS), Certificate of Analysis (COA) and applicable food additive purity standards.
| Test Item | Unit | Minimum Value | Maximum Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| HLB value | —— | 4.7 | |
| Saponification Value | mgKOH/g | 147 | 157 |
| Hydroxyl Value | mgKOH/g | 235 | 260 |
| Acid Value | mgKOH/g | — | 10 |
| Moisture | % | — | 1.5 |
| Saturated Fatty Acid | % | 71 | 75 |
| Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid | % | 29.5 | 33.5 |
| Phosphorus | mg/kg | — | 3 |
| Lead | mg/kg | — | 2 |
Applications
-
Bakery Products & Cake Emulsifier SystemsSorbitan Monostearate can be used as a lipophilic emulsifying component in permitted bakery formulations, including selected cake emulsifier blends and bakery premixes. It may support fat dispersion and interfacial stability. Effects on batter aeration, crumb texture and product volume should be verified through formulation trials.
-
Margarine, Spreads & Fat EmulsionsWith its low HLB value, Sorbitan Monostearate can contribute to water-in-oil emulsifier systems used in selected fat spreads and margarine formulations. It may be combined with other emulsifiers to adjust interfacial behavior and improve formulation compatibility.
-
Chocolate & Fat-Based ConfectioneryMay be evaluated as part of the emulsifier system in permitted chocolate products, fat-based confectionery coatings and fillings. Its effect on processing viscosity, fat-phase behavior and finished-product texture depends on the complete formulation.
-
Whipped Toppings & Cream AnaloguesCan serve as a co-emulsifier in selected whipped toppings and cream analogue formulations. Emulsion stability, whipping performance and foam structure depend on the overall emulsifier blend, fat composition and processing conditions.
-
Yeast & Fermentation-Related FormulationsMay be used in selected yeast and fermentation-related applications where emulsification or surface-active behavior is required. Any effect on yeast viability, drying tolerance or storage stability must be established through application-specific testing.
-
★ Food Regulatory & Formulation ConsiderationsE491 / INS 491. Sorbitan Monostearate is recognized in food additive regulatory frameworks, but permitted food categories, maximum use levels and purity requirements vary by jurisdiction. Manufacturers should confirm the applicable regulations and the supplied grade’s documentation before commercial use.
Lipophilic Emulsifier (HLB 4.7)
A typical HLB of 4.7 makes Sorbitan Monostearate suitable for evaluation in water-in-oil emulsions and low-HLB emulsifier blends.
Fat-Phase Compatibility
Its stearic acid-derived chains provide affinity for fats and oils, supporting its use in selected fat-containing food formulations.
Flexible Emulsifier Blending
Can be combined with more hydrophilic emulsifiers to adjust the overall HLB and interfacial properties of a formulation.
Warm-Water Dispersibility
Insoluble in cold water but dispersible in warm water. Processing temperature and mixing conditions should be optimized for the intended formulation.
Storage & Package
-
Storage ConditionsStore Sorbitan Monostearate (E491 / Span 60) in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and excessive heat. Keep containers tightly closed to prevent contamination. Protect the product from unsuitable temperature conditions that may affect its physical appearance or handling properties.
-
TransportationTransport in securely sealed, suitable containers to prevent packaging damage, contamination, or product loss. Follow standard chemical handling procedures and verify shipping classification against the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and applicable transport regulations.
-
Standard PackagingSorbitan Monostearate (E491 / Span 60) 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
-
★ 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
