E491: Sorbitan Monostearate
Main role: emulsifying
Also listed as: Span 60
What is E491 (Sorbitan Monostearate)?
Sorbitan monostearate combines sorbitan with stearic acid. It helps manage fat-and-water mixtures and is chemically distinct from the polyoxyethylene sorbitan ingredients known as polysorbates.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is emulsifying. Emulsifiers help ingredients mix or remain distributed. The recipe determines whether that means dispersing fat, improving dough handling, or controlling a coating. Their presence alone does not describe the food’s overall nutritional quality.
Food and formulation examples
- Bakery products
- Confectionery coatings
- Dessert emulsions
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E491, E 491, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include Span 60. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Sorbitan monostearate is not sorbitol E420, even though their names are related. Do not apply a sugar-alcohol serving comparison directly to this emulsifier.
Is E491 safe?
The EFSA sorbitan esters re-evaluation (2017) is a scientific reference for this group. Its conclusions apply to the uses and exposures considered in that assessment, rather than every possible use or personal circumstance.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E491 as Sorbitan monostearate. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.