Sorbitan tristearate

Sorbitan tristearate (CAS 26658-19-5), also known commercially as E492, is a lipophilic emulsifier derived from sorbitol and stearic acid.

Where is Sorbitan tristearate used?

• Food manufacturing: controls fat crystal structure in chocolate and compound coatings, preventing bloom and improving texture stability during temperature cycling
• Personal care: stabilizes water-in-oil creams and lotions
• Pharmaceutical: emulsifying and suspending agent in topical preparations and oral dosage forms
• Plastics processing: antistatic agent and lubricant additive in polyolefin systems
• It functions as a water-in-oil emulsifier, crystal modifier, and stabilizer.

Good to know: Its low HLB value supports stable emulsion architecture in rich, occlusive formulations.

Commercial specifications

• Food-grade material to E492 specification