Sorbitan monolaurate

Overview

Chemical structure of Sorbitan Monolaurate

Sorbitan monolaurate is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier commonly used in the production of food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. It is derived from the dehydration of sorbitol and the esterification of the resulting sorbitan with lauric acid.

Chemical Properties

Sorbitan monolaurate is a member of the sorbitan esters family, which are known for their ability to stabilize emulsions. The chemical formula for sorbitan monolaurate is C₁₈H₃₄O₆. It is characterized by its hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) value, which makes it suitable for use in water-in-oil emulsions.

Applications

Sorbitan monolaurate is widely used in various industries due to its emulsifying properties:

Food Industry

In the food industry, sorbitan monolaurate is used as an emulsifier in products such as baked goods, margarine, and chocolate. It helps to maintain the texture and consistency of these products by preventing the separation of oil and water components.

Cosmetics

In the cosmetics industry, sorbitan monolaurate is used in creams, lotions, and other personal care products. It helps to blend ingredients that would otherwise separate, providing a smooth and stable product.

Pharmaceuticals

In the pharmaceutical industry, sorbitan monolaurate is used as an excipient in the formulation of various drugs. It aids in the delivery of active ingredients by improving the solubility and stability of the formulation.

Safety and Regulations

Sorbitan monolaurate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food products. However, it is important to adhere to regulatory guidelines regarding its concentration and usage in different applications.

Related Pages

• Sorbitan esters
• Emulsifier
• Lauric acid
• Sorbitol