Polioksietilen (40) stearat

Detailed information

What it is & how it is made

Polyoxyethylene (40) stearate is defined in the EU specification as a mixture of the mono- and diesters of edible commercial stearic acid and polyoxyethylene diols averaging about 40 oxyethylene units. It appears as cream-coloured flakes or a waxy solid and is at least 97.5 per cent pure on the anhydrous basis.

Where it is used

It is used as an emulsifier. Its use in the EU is restricted to a narrow range of applications, mainly in bakery products to help dough hold water and fat together and to delay staling during shelf life.

Health note

In the EU it is permitted only in a limited number of foods and at specific maximum levels; it is not covered by the Group I quantum satis allowance. This restriction indicates that the substance is not among the additives that may be used freely.

Halal assessment

The EU specification describes the raw material as “edible commercial stearic acid”, wording that does not exclude animal fat. Since stearic acid can be obtained from vegetable oils as well as from animal tallow, it is appropriate to treat it as doubtful unless the source is confirmed by the manufacturer.