What is E495? Sorbitan Monopalmitate Explained

As an Amazon Associate and AWIN affiliate partner we earn from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you. Disclosure ›

🟢 🟢 Safe
E495 — Sorbitan Monopalmitate
🌱VeganUncertain
🥚VegetarianCheck
☪️HalalMashbooh
🌴Palm OilPossible

E495 is Sorbitan Monopalmitate — a emulsifier (plant or animal fat) used in bread, margarine and spreads.

What is E495 (Sorbitan Monopalmitate)?

E495 is Sorbitan Monopalmitate, a food additive classified as a emulsifier that keep oil and water mixed and improve texture. A emulsifier (plant or animal fat) used in bread, margarine and spreads. You'll find it in bread, margarine and spreads, chocolate and many other packaged foods. Like every E-number, E495 has been authorised for use in food following an EFSA safety evaluation — though authorisation doesn't mean concern-free, as the safety section below explains.

Where is E495 found?

E495 (Sorbitan Monopalmitate) is found in bread, margarine and spreads, chocolate, ice cream, salad dressings, mayonnaise.

Is E495 safe?

EFSA has reviewed E495 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Sorbitan Monopalmitate to harm at normal dietary intakes.

EFSA opinion: Sorbitan Monopalmitate — status Safe.

Check the calorie content of foods containing E495. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide.

Cleaner alternatives to E495

grass-fed additive-free biltong

MORiSH Biltong

MORiSH Air-Dried Biltong
Looking for snacks where you know exactly what’s in them? MORiSH air-dried steak biltong is grass-fed, no added sugar, and just three ingredients.

Shop at MORiSH →
Circle DNA

Circle DNA Premium Test
Find out how your body responds to foods and additives — nutrition, sensitivities and 500+ reports from one at-home DNA test.

Circle DNA fitness & nutrition →

E495 FAQs

What is E495 in food?

E495 is Sorbitan Monopalmitate — a emulsifier (plant or animal fat) used in bread, margarine and spreads.

Is E495 safe to eat?

EFSA has reviewed E495 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Sorbitan Monopalmitate to harm at normal dietary intakes.

Is E495 vegan?

E495 (Sorbitan Monopalmitate) may or may not be vegan — it depends on the source used by the manufacturer.

Is E495 halal?

E495 (Sorbitan Monopalmitate) is MASHBOOH — its halal status is doubtful and depends on the source used.

Related Emulsifiers additives

Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA

Last updated: