Polysorbate 80

Polysorbate 80 is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from polyethoxylated sorbitan and oleic acid and is often used in foods. It can be used as a foaming agent to make spumas or airs. It is also added as an emulsifier in foods, particularly in ice cream, where polysorbate is added to up to 0.5% concentration to make the ice cream smoother and easier to handle and increase its resistance to melting. Polysorbate prevents milk proteins from completely coating the fat droplets. This allows them to join together in chains and nets, which hold air in the mixture and provide a firmer texture that holds its shape as the ice cream melts.

Polysorbate 80, also known as tween 80, helps bind ingredients like oil and water to each other. It is made from polyethoxylated sorbitan (chemical compounds derived from the dehydration of sugar alcohol), ethylene oxide, and oleic acid, a fatty acid found in animal and vegetable fats. Polysorbate 80 is considered Vegan, Lactose Free, Gluten Free, Glutamate Free, BSE Free. It is a yellow/golden-colored viscous liquid used as an emulsifier or surfactant in foods, medicines, skincare products, vaccines, etc. It also acts as a surfactant in soaps and cosmetics.

Polysorbate 80 is an additive used in processed food products for its emulsifying properties (ability to prevent fats from separating out). Commercially produced frozen desserts, shortenings, baking mixes and icings, and canned vegetables are some of the foods that may contain polysorbate 80. Additionally, it is used as a dispersing agent for fat-soluble vitamins in vitamin-mineral dietary supplements and is commonly used in many pharmaceutical drugs. If it is included in a product, it should be noted on the list of ingredients found on the label.