Stearic acid
Learn what Stearic acid (E570) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Stearic acid?
A food additive used as an anti-caking agent, plasticizer for chewing gum, and flavor compound, also found in pastry products, giving a buttery flavor. It is used as a carrier substance for other additives or as a component of other additives. Stearic acid is a normal component of any fat. For industrial use, it is derived from animal or vegetable fats.
Why is Stearic acid added to food?
Stearic acid (E570) is a emulsifier commonly found in: Pastry products, chewing gum.
Permitted quantity: No specified daily limit.
Is Stearic acid safe?
Generally recognized as safe
No secondary effects have been reported at the levels used in food products.
Is Stearic acid banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Stearic acid okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Stearic acid
- Pastry products
- chewing gum
How to spot Stearic acid on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E570
- Stearic acid
Common misspellings to watch for:
- stearie acid
- $tearic acid
- stearic dcid
- stearlc acid
- stedric acid
- stearic acld
- stearic aeid
- stearic acid
Better alternatives
• Excess fats: Although stearic acid is a naturally occurring ingredient used in small amounts, excessive consumption of saturated fats can contribute to increased blood cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risks. It is important to monitor fat intake in your daily diet. • Individuals with cardiovascular conditions: People with cardiovascular conditions should be cautious of excessive stearic acid consumption, as it is a type of saturated fat that may contribute to increased LDL cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease.
Also known as
- stearie acid
- $tearic acid
- stearic dcid
- stearlc acid
- stedric acid
- stearic acld
- stearic aeid
- stearic acid
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Stearic acid? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E570 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Stearic acid
- Is Stearic acid safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported at the levels used in food products.
- Is Stearic acid banned anywhere?
- Stearic acid is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Stearic acid safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Stearic acid on a food label?
- Look for E570, Stearic acid in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: stearie acid, $tearic acid, stearic dcid.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.