Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate
Learn what Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate (E433) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate?
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 monooleate added to food?
Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate (E433) 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 monooleate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate
- Fine bakery products
- sauces
- desserts
- fatty emulsions
See the full list of foods that contain Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate →
How to spot Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E433
- Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- polyoxyethylene sorbitdn monooleate
- polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate
- dolyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate
- polyoxyethylene $orbitan monooleate
- polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooledte
- polyoxyethylene sorbltan monooleate
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to polysorbates. • Excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, bloating, and diarrhea. • Not recommended for people with liver or kidney conditions. • May contribute to metabolic imbalances and increased cholesterol, contraindicated for people with cardiovascular conditions.
Also known as
- polyoxyethylene sorbitdn monooleate
- polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate
- dolyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate
- polyoxyethylene $orbitan monooleate
- polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooledte
- polyoxyethylene sorbltan monooleate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E433 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate
- Is Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate safe to eat?
- Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate has a harm level of 2 out of 3. Moderate concern.
- Is Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate banned anywhere?
- Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate on a food label?
- Look for E433, Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: polyoxyethylene sorbitdn monooleate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate, dolyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.