E494 (Sorbitan monooleate) is a chemical compound, the monoester of oleic acid and hexitol anhydrides obtained from sorbitol.

What it is used for and where

Cosmetics

Fragrance. It plays a very important role in the formulation of cosmetic products as it allows perfume to be enhanced, masked or added to the final product, improving its commercial viability. The consumer always expects to find a pleasant scent in a cosmetic product.

Surfactant - Emulsifying agent. Emulsions are thermodynamically unstable. Emulsifiers have the property to reduce the oil/water or water/oil interfacial tension, improve emulsion stability and also directly influence the stability, sensory properties and surface tension of sunscreens by modulating their filmometric performance.

Food

Ingredient included in the list of European food additives as E494 with an emulsifying function.

CAS: 1338-43-8, 37318-79-9