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polysorbate 80 ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namepolysorbate 80
English namepolysorbate 80
INS/E numberINS 433
Functional classEmulsifier
Year adopted1973
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Polysorbate 80 (Tween 80) is a non-ionic surfactant made by ethoxylation of sorbitan monooleate. It is the most widely used polysorbate emulsifier, with strong hydrophilicity for beverage, dairy and frozen dessert emulsions.

Source ​

Industrial:山梨醇脱水生成山梨醇酐,与油酸酯化得失水山梨醇单油酸酯,再与环氧乙烷加成聚合

Why is it used? ​

  • Emulsifies fats and flavours, preventing ring or oil separation in beverages
  • Stabilises aeration and texture of ice cream and frozen desserts
  • Improves dispersion of fat-soluble vitamins and colours
  • Functions as a dough conditioner and cake crumb emulsifier

Common Foods ​

  • Carbonated beverages
  • Ice cream
  • Dairy drinks
  • Bakery products
  • Margarine
  • Emulsified flavourings

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake):0-25 mg/kg bw (as polysorbates, group ADI)

Concerns:

  • 高剂量动物实验提示可能影响免疫与肠道菌群,人类正常摄入量下证据不足
  • 可能引起个别敏感者轻度胃肠不适

Usage Standard ​

China:GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》

International:

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 433)
  • FDA 21 CFR 172.515
  • Codex GSFA (INS 433)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (433)
  • JECFA Monograph (1973)

In a nutshell ​

Polysorbate 80 is the most widely used non-ionic emulsifier, stabilising fat emulsions in beverages and frozen desserts.

Consumer Advice ​

Polysorbate 80 is one of the most widely used synthetic emulsifiers. It helps oil and water blend evenly and stay stable, and is found in ice cream, salad dressings, non-dairy creamers, chewing gum and drinks. It contains no animal ingredients, and food safety agencies worldwide consider it safe at normal levels. Occasional studies discuss possible effects of emulsifiers on the gut, but typical intakes are far below the high doses used in research, so there is no need to worry.

Dietary Restrictions ​

  • Vegan: ✅
  • Halal: ✅
  • Kosher: ✅

Allergens ​

✅ Free from common allergens

Disclaimer ​

The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.