We unleash your business potential by maximize the business innovation.
Send EmailSorbitan Tristearate, Sorbitan Trioctadecanoate, Anhydrosorbitan Tristearate, STS, Span 65, E492, 26658-19-5
Sorbitan Tristearate (E492)
Chemical Identity
-
Name: Sorbitan tristearate
-
Synonyms: Span 65, Sorbitan trioctadecanoate
-
CAS Number: 26658-19-5
-
Molecular Formula: C₆₀H₁₁₄O₈
-
Appearance: Waxy solid, ranging from cream to light brown
Structure & Composition
-
Produced by esterification of sorbitol and stearic acid.
-
Contains a mixture of sorbitol partial esters and anhydrides with stearic acid.
-
Non-ionic surfactant → does not carry electrical charge, making it stable in various formulations.
Functional Properties
-
Emulsifier: Helps mix oil and water phases in food and cosmetics.
-
Stabilizer: Prevents separation in emulsions.
-
Dispersing agent: Ensures even distribution of particles in sprays and suspensions.
-
Foam control: Can act as an anti-foaming or foaming agent depending on system.
Applications
-
Food industry (E492):
-
Chocolate, margarine, bakery products, confectionery
-
Improves texture, prevents fat bloom in chocolate, enhances shelf life
-
-
Cosmetics:
-
Creams, lotions, sunscreens – provides smooth texture and stability
-
-
Industrial uses:
-
Plastics, coatings, and aerosol sprays
-
Safety & Regulation
-
Approved as a food additive in the EU (E492) and recognized by FDA.
-
Considered safe at regulated levels.
-
Excessive intake may cause mild digestive effects.
Summary: Sorbitan tristearate is a non-ionic emulsifier derived from sorbitol and stearic acid. Known commercially as Span 65, it is widely used in food, cosmetics, and industrial applications to stabilize emulsions and improve product quality.
Sorbitan Tristearate (E492), tailored to food, pharma, and cosmetics applications. I’ve also included typical usage ranges based on regulatory and industrial practice.
Sectoral Suitability & Usage Levels
| Sector | Application Examples | Function | Typical Usage Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food Industry | Chocolate, margarine, bakery, confectionery | Emulsifier, stabilizer, anti-bloom agent | 0.5 – 5 g/kg (depending on product type, EU limits apply) |
| Pharmaceuticals | Oral suspensions, ointments, capsules | Emulsifier, dispersing agent | 0.1 – 2% of formulation |
| Cosmetics | Creams, lotions, sunscreens, hair products | Emulsifier, stabilizer, texture enhancer | 0.5 – 3% of formulation |
| Industrial | Plastics, coatings, aerosol sprays | Dispersing agent, anti-static additive | 0.5 – 2% of formulation |
Notes
-
Food (E492): EU regulations allow sorbitan tristearate in specific categories, with maximum levels defined (e.g., up to 5 g/kg in confectionery).
-
Pharma: Used in controlled-release formulations and suspensions; levels are lower to ensure safety and bioavailability.
-
Cosmetics: Provides smooth texture and stability; usage depends on product viscosity and oil-water ratio.
-
Industrial: Acts as a dispersant and stabilizer in non-food systems; dosage optimized for material compatibility.
