What is E432?
E432 is Polysorbate 20 — a synthetic emulsifier built on fatty acids that may come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fat, used as a emulsifier to help help mix ingredients that would normally separate, like oil and water.
What is E432 (Polysorbate 20)?
E432 is the E-number for polysorbate 20, one of the emulsifiers group of food additives (E400–E499). Additives in this group help mix ingredients that would normally separate, like oil and water. A synthetic emulsifier built on fatty acids that may come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fat. Like every E-number, E432 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E432 in detail below.
Where is E432 found?
E432 is typically used in bread, margarine, chocolate, ice cream, cakes and processed foods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E432) or by its full name, polysorbate 20. Common foods that may contain E432 include:
- Bread
- Margarine
- Chocolate
- Ice cream
- Cakes and processed foods
Full guide: foods containing E432 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E432 safe?
E432 is approved for use in the EU, UK and US at regulated levels, but some concerns or conditions apply. For most people, normal dietary exposure to E432 is not considered harmful.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — acceptable daily intake (ADI) or conditions of use apply
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E432 vegan?
E432 is uncertain for vegans — it is a synthetic emulsifier built on fatty acids that may come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fat, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Full vegan status guide for E432 →Is E432 halal?
E432 is mashbooh (doubtful) — a synthetic emulsifier built on fatty acids that may come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fat. Verify the source with the manufacturer or choose halal-certified products.
Full halal status guide for E432 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E432 in food?
E432 is Polysorbate 20 — a synthetic emulsifier built on fatty acids that may come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fat, used as a emulsifier to help help mix ingredients that would normally separate, like oil and water.
Is E432 safe to eat?
E432 is approved at regulated levels in the EU, UK and US, but some concerns exist — see the safety section above. Most people can consume it in normal amounts without harm.
Is E432 vegan?
E432 is uncertain for vegans — it is a synthetic emulsifier built on fatty acids that may come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fat, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Is E432 halal?
E432 is mashbooh (doubtful) — a synthetic emulsifier built on fatty acids that may come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fat. Verify the source with the manufacturer or choose halal-certified products.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).