E491 — Sorbitan monostearate
E491 (Sorbitan monostearate), a emulsifier, is rated "watch": fine in moderation. A synthetic emulsifier in baked goods, cake mixes, and whipped toppings. EFSA-cleared at typical use levels.
What is Sorbitan monostearate?
An emulsifier combining sorbitol with stearic acid. Used in cake mixes, baked goods, whipped toppings, and dairy substitutes.
What does it do to the body?
Broken down in your gut into sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) and stearic acid (a common dietary fat). Large amounts can have a mild laxative effect from the sorbitol component.
What regulators say
EFSA set a group acceptable daily intake of 25 mg per kg of body weight per day for sorbitan esters. The FDA approves it as GRAS for specific uses.
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.