E495 · Sorbitan monopalmitate
We haven’t recorded a regulator assessment for Sorbitan monopalmitate yet. The information below comes from our ingredient database; a verdict will appear here once EFSA, FDA or WHO positions are added.
What is E495?
Sorbitan monopalmitate is an ester of sorbitol and palmitic acid that serves as an emulsifier and surfactant in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Like other sorbitan esters, it helps create stable emulsions, preventing separation of oil and water phases in products like margarine, ice cream, lotions, and creams. It is approved by EFSA and the FDA within prescribed limits; the palmitic acid may be derived from palm oil or animal fat.
Also appears on labels as: E495, E 495, E-495, Sorbitan monopalmitate, Span 40, Sorbitan hexadecanoate, Sorbitan palmitate, Monopalmitate of sorbitan, Palmitic acid ester of sorbitan, E495 emulsifier, Emulsifier E495, Food additive E495.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food use levels.
Frequently asked questions
Is E495 safe?
Our overall verdict for E495 (Sorbitan monopalmitate) is “Not yet rated”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — no regulator assessment is recorded in our database yet.
Is E495 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sorbitan monopalmitate — vegan: no, vegetarian: no, halal: no, kosher: no, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E495 and why is it used?
Sorbitan monopalmitate is an ester of sorbitol and palmitic acid that serves as an emulsifier and surfactant in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Like other sorbitan esters, it helps create stable emulsions, preventing separation of oil and water phases in products like margarine, ice cream, lotions, and creams. It is approved by EFSA and the FDA within prescribed limits; the palmitic acid may be derived from palm oil or animal fat.
Does E495 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Sorbitan monopalmitate.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.