Sorbitan Tristearate

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Sorbitan Tristearate, also known as PEG-45 hydrogenated castor oil, is a chemical used in the food and cosmetic industries. This substance is commonly used as an emulsifier, meaning that it stabilizes mixtures that would otherwise separate into two or more phases. Sorbitan Tristearate is a product obtained by reacting sorbitol with stearic acid, two natural compounds found in plants. It is because of its properties that Sorbitan Tristearate is a popular ingredient in many foods.

Sorbitan Tristearate is widely used in many products. In the food industry, this substance is often used as a stabilizer in factory-produced foods such as chocolate, baked goods, baking semi-finished products or some types of ice cream. In the cosmetics industry, due to its properties, it is mainly used as an emulsifier in products such as skin care, make-up, creams, lotions or shampoos. Another use is in the pharmaceutical industry, where it is used as a moisturizing ingredient in tablets and other dosage forms. In addition to allowing for long-term stability of the compound, it also helps improve the absorption of the active ingredients. Although it is a relatively safe ingredient, people with allergies to castor oil or sorbitol should avoid cosmetics or foods containing Sorbitan Tristearate.