Polyethylene glycol distearate

Polyethylene glycol distearate (CAS 9005-08-7), also sold under trade names Witconol MST, Vinlub, and Tegomuls 90S, is a nonionic ester used across food, pharmaceutical, and personal care manufacturing.

It functions as an emulsifier, rheology modifier, and carrier, helping formulators control texture, stability, and ingredient distribution in finished products. In personal care, it thickens and pearlizes shampoos and conditioners.

It gives body washes their characteristic opaque, creamy appearance. Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it to coat tablets and encapsulate active ingredients, controlling release profiles and improving swallowability for patients.

In food processing, it acts as an emulsifier in baked goods, confectionery coatings, and fat-based systems where consistent texture and shelf stability are commercial priorities for the manufacturer.

It also functions as a solubilizer and carrier for oil-soluble actives in topical formulations and nutritional products. Polyethylene glycol distearate is supplied as a waxy solid, flakes, or pastilles.

The physical form varies by molecular weight grade. Common grades are distinguished by their 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 depending on the supplier and the specific requirements of the application.