E491 · INS 491Sometimes animal

Sorbitan monostearate

Common US / international name: sorbitan monostearate

Origin: Emulsifier in the sorbitan ester family.
What it depends on: Stearate portion may be plant or animal sourced.
Where it typically appears: Cakes, chocolate, yeast, creamers.
Product groups: Bakery, Sweets, Dairy
Source: EU Reg. No 1333/2008 Annex II; Codex CAC/GL 36-1989; Open Food Facts additives taxonomy (ODbL). As of September 1, 2026