Polysorbate

Group of non-ionic surfactants; (trade name Tween); chemical: polyoxyethylene(20) sorbitan compounds. They are used as emulsifiers in food, detergents as well as in external, care and pharmaceutical products (e.g. in creams and lotions). The EU food additive number of polysorbate 20 (Tween 20) is E 432, of polysorbate 80 E 433.

Polysorbate 20 (trade name Tween 20) is formed during the esterification of sorbitol and its anhydrides with lauric acid and subsequent reaction with ethylene oxide.

Polysorbate 80 (trade name Tween 80), chemical: polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate, is a viscous, water-soluble yellow liquid derived from sorbitol and oleic acid. The fatty acid fraction consists mainly of unsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid, palmitoleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid). In this respect it differs from its relatives, the polysorbates 20, 40, 60. Polysorbate 80 is mainly used in dishes, especially in pickled foods, as an emulsifier and stabiliser. It is chemically and biologically largely inert. Furthermore it serves as a solubilizer and emulsifier in the production of pharmaceuticals. It is also parenteral compatible. A common concentration of Polysorbate 80 in creams and emulsions is 5-15%.

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