What is E491?
E491 is Sorbitan Monostearate — made from sorbitol and stearic acid, which can be plant (including palm) or animal derived, used as a emulsifier to help help mix ingredients that would normally separate, like oil and water.
What is E491 (Sorbitan Monostearate)?
E491 is the E-number for sorbitan monostearate, 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. Made from sorbitol and stearic acid, which can be plant (including palm) or animal derived. Like every E-number, E491 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 E491 in detail below.
Where is E491 found?
E491 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 (E491) or by its full name, sorbitan monostearate. Common foods that may contain E491 include:
- Bread
- Margarine
- Chocolate
- Ice cream
- Cakes and processed foods
Full guide: foods containing E491 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E491 safe?
E491 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E491.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E491 vegan?
E491 is uncertain for vegans — it is made from sorbitol and stearic acid, which can be plant (including palm) or animal derived, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Full vegan status guide for E491 →Is E491 halal?
E491 is mashbooh (doubtful) — made from sorbitol and stearic acid, which can be plant (including palm) or animal derived. Verify the source with the manufacturer or choose halal-certified products.
Full halal status guide for E491 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E491 in food?
E491 is Sorbitan Monostearate — made from sorbitol and stearic acid, which can be plant (including palm) or animal derived, used as a emulsifier to help help mix ingredients that would normally separate, like oil and water.
Is E491 safe to eat?
Yes. E491 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E491 vegan?
E491 is uncertain for vegans — it is made from sorbitol and stearic acid, which can be plant (including palm) or animal derived, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Is E491 halal?
E491 is mashbooh (doubtful) — made from sorbitol and stearic acid, which can be plant (including palm) or animal derived. 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
This section contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Concerned about food additives?
Food Intolerance Test
Find out exactly which ingredients affect you with a home food intolerance test.
Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).