Sorbitol monooleate (E494) – what is it?

Sorbitol monooleate, also designated as E494, is an organic chemical compound used as a food additive. It is an emulsifier that helps stabilize mixtures, ensuring uniformity and even distribution of ingredients.

It is an ester from sorbitol and oleic acid that has emulsifying and fixing properties. It is widely used in the food industry for a wide variety of products.

Properties of Sorbitol Monooleate (E494)

  • Emulsification: It is an effective emulsifier that helps combine ingredients that do not normally mix, such as fats and water.
  • Stabilization: Helps maintain the stability of mixtures by preventing ingredients from delaminating and ensuring long-term uniformity.
  • Fixation: Acts as a fixative, providing better shelf life and consistency in food products.

Use of Sorbitol Monooleate (E494)

  • Bakery products, such as cakes and pastries, where it helps maintain moisture and freshness.
  • Ice creams, custards and desserts, where it acts as an emulsifier and stabilizer, providing a uniform texture and consistency.
  • Margarines and other fatty products, where it helps maintain consistency and prevents delamination of ingredients.
  • Various finished products, such as sauces, dressings and jellies, where it acts as an emulsifier and fixative.

Where to buy sorbitol monooleate (E494)?

Sorbitol monooleate, E494, is available in grocery stores and online food ingredient stores. It can also be found in grocery wholesalers and food stores.

Sorbitol monooleate (E494) and its functions in foods

Sorbitol monooleate, E494, plays a key role in food production, ensuring the stability, uniformity and shelf life of food products. As an emulsifier and fixative, it helps maintain the desired texture and consistency, which is important for the quality and appeal of consumer products.

Its versatile use makes it an indispensable ingredient in many food products, and its availability in grocery stores makes it easy for manufacturers to use it in creating a variety of food products.