E481 — Sodium stearoyl lactylate
E481 (Sodium stearoyl lactylate), a emulsifier, is rated "watch": fine in moderation. An emulsifier and dough conditioner in commercial bread, cake mixes, and pancake mixes. EFSA-cleared but part of the broader emulsifier microbiome watch list.
What is Sodium stearoyl lactylate?
An emulsifier combining stearic acid (a common dietary fat), lactic acid, and sodium. Used in supermarket bread, packaged baked goods, pancake mixes, and instant rice.
What does it do to the body?
Your body breaks it back into ordinary fatty acids and lactate. Generally considered safe; the broader emulsifier-microbiome concern applies but evidence is much stronger for CMC and polysorbate 80.
What regulators say
EFSA confirmed an acceptable daily intake of 20 mg per kg of body weight per day. The FDA approves it as GRAS.
Risk rating: Watch
Mixed evidence or a specific concern (gut, allergy, or contested safety data). Not alarming, but worth keeping an eye on rather than eating without limit.