E492: Sorbitan Tristearate
Main role: emulsifying
Also listed as: Span 65
What is E492 (Sorbitan Tristearate)?
Sorbitan tristearate is a sorbitan ester with multiple stearate components. It can influence crystallization and distribution of fat in suitable food recipes.
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
- Chocolate coatings
- Confectionery
- Fat-based preparations
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 E492, E 492, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include Span 65. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
E492 and E491 have different ester compositions. Their suffixes describe chemical identity rather than an increasing level of toxicity.
Is E492 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 E492 as Sorbitan tristearate. 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.