Sorbitan esters

Sorbitan Esters – Versatile Emulsifiers for Various Applications

Sorbitan esters are polyol-type compounds formed by esterifying dehydrated sorbitol (sorbitan) with fatty acids. These non-ionic, water-in-oil surfactants are commonly used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. The hydrophilic part comes from sorbitol, while the hydrophobic part is derived from fatty acids.

Produced by reacting sorbitol and its anhydrides with edible fatty acids, sorbitan esters vary based on the type and amount of fatty acids used. As food-grade emulsifiers, they are made from natural oils and fats.

With an HLB range from 1.80 to 16.70, sorbitan esters offer flexibility in emulsifying and solubilizing various oils and polar solvents. They are known for their stability, low toxicity, and cost-effectiveness. Sorbitan 60 and Sorbitan 80 are the most popular products in this category, widely used in food emulsions.