Polyethylene glycol distearate

Polyethylene glycol distearate (CAS 9005-08-7) is a nonionic ester used in food, pharmaceutical, and personal care manufacturing. Also marketed as Witconol MST, Vinlub, and Tegomuls 90S.

Where is Polyethylene glycol distearate used?

• Personal care: thickens and pearlizes shampoos and conditioners
• Body washes: opaque, creamy appearance
• Pharmaceuticals: tablet coating and encapsulation of active ingredients, controlling release profiles
• Food processing: emulsifier in baked goods, confectionery coatings, and fat-based systems
• Topical and nutritional products: solubilizer and carrier for oil-soluble actives
• It functions as an emulsifier, rheology modifier, and carrier.

Good to know: Grades are distinguished by PEG chain length, such as PEG-2, PEG-8, or PEG-150 distearate, each suited to different viscosity targets. Food-grade and cosmetic-grade specifications are available, with some grades meeting FCC or Ph. Eur. standards.

Commercial specifications

• Physical form varies by molecular weight grade
• Common grades: PEG-2, PEG-8, PEG-150 distearate
• Some grades meet FCC or Ph. Eur. standards