Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate
Learn what Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate (E432) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate?
Synthetic food additive used as an emulsifier and flavoring agent. It is also used as a solvent for other food additives. It is used in fine bakery products, sauces, desserts, confectionery products, fatty emulsions for pastries, instant soups, food ice cream, and dietary products for weight control. Not recommended for vegetarians, as it may come from animal fats.
Why is Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate added to food?
Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate (E432) is a emulsifier commonly found in: Fine bakery products, sauces, desserts, fatty emulsions.
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for human consumption is up to 25 mg/kg body weight.
Is Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate
- Fine bakery products
- sauces
- desserts
- fatty emulsions
See the full list of foods that contain Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate →
How to spot Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E432
- Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- polyoxyethylene sorbltan monolaurate
- polyoxyethylene sorbitan monoldurate
- polyoxyethylene sorbitdn monolaurate
- polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate
- polyoxyethylene $orbitan monolaurate
- polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurdte
- dolyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to polysorbates. • Excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort, such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. • Not recommended for people with liver or kidney conditions, as it may negatively affect the function of these organs. • May contribute to lipid and metabolic imbalances, requiring caution for people with cardiovascular conditions.
Also known as
- polyoxyethylene sorbltan monolaurate
- polyoxyethylene sorbitan monoldurate
- polyoxyethylene sorbitdn monolaurate
- polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate
- polyoxyethylene $orbitan monolaurate
- polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurdte
- dolyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E432 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate
- Is Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate safe to eat?
- Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate has a harm level of 2 out of 3. Moderate concern.
- Is Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate banned anywhere?
- Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate on a food label?
- Look for E432, Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: polyoxyethylene sorbltan monolaurate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monoldurate, polyoxyethylene sorbitdn monolaurate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.