Szorbittánészterek

Szorbittánészterek, also known as sorbitan esters, are a group of nonionic surfactants derived from sorbitol and fatty acids. Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol, and when it reacts with fatty acids, it forms ester linkages. The resulting molecules have a hydrophilic (water-loving) sorbitol head and a lipophilic (fat-loving) fatty acid tail, making them effective emulsifiers, solubilizers, and dispersants.

These compounds are widely used in various industries due to their versatile properties. In the food industry, they act as emulsifiers in products like ice cream, baked goods, and margarine, improving texture and stability. They can also enhance the dispersion of flavors and colors. In the pharmaceutical sector, sorbitan esters are employed as excipients in drug formulations, aiding in the dissolution and absorption of active ingredients. They also find applications in cosmetics and personal care products, serving as emulsifiers in creams, lotions, and makeup, and as solubilizers for fragrances and oils.

Common examples of sorbitan esters include sorbitan monolaurate, sorbitan monopalmitate, sorbitan monostearate, and sorbitan tristearate, with the nomenclature indicating the type and number of fatty acid chains attached to the sorbitol molecule. They are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food in many countries.