Sorbitan monopalmitate

Sorbitan monopalmitate (CAS 26266-57-9), commercially recognized as Span 40 and approved as E495, is a non-ionic emulsifier derived from sorbitol and palmitic acid. It stabilizes oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions across food, pharmaceutical, and personal care manufacturing. Formulators select it for its mid-range HLB value, which positions it between shorter and longer-chain sorbitan esters for targeted emulsion control. In food production, E495 functions as an emulsifier in bakery shortenings and margarine.

It is also used in confectionery coatings to improve texture consistency and shelf stability. Pharmaceutical manufacturers incorporate it into topical creams and ointment bases where controlled water-oil balance is critical to product performance. Personal care formulators use it to stabilize lotions and conditioning treatments, particularly where a waxy, skin-feel emulsifier is preferred over lighter alternatives. In textile and fiber processing, it acts as a lubricating agent.

It serves as a dispersing agent applied during fiber finishing operations. Sorbitan monopalmitate is supplied as a cream to tan-colored waxy solid, typically in flake or bead form for easy handling in industrial settings. It is available in food-grade (E495-compliant) and pharmaceutical-grade specifications meeting USP and Ph. Eur. standards. Technical-grade material is also offered for industrial textile and paper applications.