Polysorbate 40 (polyoxyethylene sorbitan monopalmitate) is a derivative of sorbitol(E 420) of a C6 sugar alcohol and is authorised as a food additive under number E 434. Like all polysorbates, the substance acts as an emulsifier that can be used regardless of the temperature and acidity of its environment. Polysorbates also stabilise the structure of fats and foams.
Polysorbate 40 is a yellowish and odourless substance with a liquid to gel-like consistency. It is soluble in water, ethanol, methanol, ethyl acetate and tuluene.
Polysorbates are produced from sorbitol and fatty acids. The production of edible fatty acids from animal fats is possible, but vegetable fats are usually used.
Use: Polysorbate 40 is subject to the same conditions of authorisation as polysorbate 20(E 432). Polysorbates are considered to be harmless.