Polysorbate 80

Polysorbate 80 (CAS 9005-65-6), also identified as E433 and PS80, is a polyoxyethylene sorbitan ester derived from oleic acid.

Where is Polysorbate 80 used?

• Food: E433 prevents fat separation in ice cream, whipped toppings, and baked goods
• Pharmaceutical: PS80 solubilizes active ingredients in injectable formulations, oral liquids, and topical preparations
• Cosmetics and personal care: emulsifies creams, lotions, and serums while supporting fragrance and vitamin solubilization in water-based systems
• Agricultural: dispersant and wetting agent in emulsifiable concentrate pesticides
• It stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions and solubilizes oil-soluble ingredients into aqueous systems.
• In protein formulations, it prevents protein adsorption and aggregation.
• In industrial cleaners, degreasers, and textile-processing auxiliaries.
• In RODAC agar plates for microbiological control, it counteracts disinfectants on sampled surfaces to allow microbial growth.

Good to know: Food-grade material meets FCC specifications; pharmaceutical-grade supply meets USP, BP, and Ph. Eur. standards. Each grade carries distinct purity and testing requirements relevant to regulatory submissions.

Formulation notes

• In lotions and creams, 2-6% helps emulsify and provides a smooth, even texture.
• Works better with thicker oils such as castor or coconut oil, whereas polysorbate 20 is better for light, delicate fragrances.

Typical specification

• Typical HLB value of around 15.
• Saponification value of 45-55.
• Acid value of not more than 2.0.
• Viscosity of approximately 400 mPa·s at 25°C.

Regulatory status

• The acceptable daily intake is set at 25 mg per kg of body weight.

Storage, packaging and handling

• Store at +15 °C to +30 °C.
• Store in a cool, dry place and protect from sunlight.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.