Sodium stearoyl lactylate (E481)

Sodium stearoyl lactylate (E481) – what is it?

Sodium stearoyl lactate (E481) is an emulsifier used mainly in the food industry for food production. It is a chemical substance obtained by reacting stearic acid with lactic acid and then esterifying it with sodium. In food products, it can appear under various trade names, but is mainly identified by the number E481.

Properties of sodium stearoyl lactylate (E481)

Sodium stearoyl lactylate is a white or creamy powder with a neutral odor and taste. It is well soluble in water and has the ability to emulsify fats, meaning that it helps maintain the stability of fat and water mixtures in food products. In addition, it has the ability to regulate consistency and texture, which is important for many food products such as margarines, sauces, and dessert creams.

Uses of sodium stearoyl lactylate (E481)

Sodium stearoyl lactylate is widely used in the food industry as an emulsifier and stabilizer. It is mainly used in the production of margarines, processed cheeses, dessert creams, ice cream and other products where emulsification of fats and water is required. It can also be used as a raising agent in baked goods.

Where to buy sodium stearoyl lactylate (E481)?

Sodium stearoyl lactylate (E481) is available in grocery stores, as well as online stores selling food ingredients. It is worth checking availability at specialty food wholesalers or directly with food industry ingredient manufacturers.

Sodium stearoyl lactylate (E481) and its functions in foods

Sodium stearoyl lactylate plays an important role in the food industry, enabling manufacturers to achieve the desired consistency, texture and stability of food products containing fats and water. Thanks to its emulsifying properties, it is possible to achieve uniform mixtures and prevent separation of ingredients in products, which contributes to their attractive appearance and longer shelf life.