E491
thickeners, gelling agents, phosphates, humectants, emulsifiersSorbitan Monostearate
What should I do with this product?
Safe to buy. This additive is permissible under Islamic dietary law.
See which foods use it →Avoid this code. Check halal alternatives or scan a substitute product.
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About E491
Emulsifiers and stabilizers - salts or esters of fatty acids. Suitable for vegetarian label indicates that only vegetable fat is used as a source.. Halal if it is 100% from plant fat. Haraam if it is from pork fat
Verification Required
This additive's halal status depends on its source. Check the product label for a halal certification mark, or contact the manufacturer directly.
What is E491 made from?
- sorbitol + stearic acid (plant or animal fat)
Scholarly Notes
Mushbooh - stearic acid source must be verified. 'Suitable for vegetarians' = plant source = halal.
Foods that commonly contain E491
Food Category Guide
E491 is common in confectionery coatings — see the full halal guide →
Always check the ingredient label on the specific product - manufacturers may change formulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is E491 (Sorbitan Monostearate) halal?
E491 (Sorbitan Monostearate) is classified as Mushbooh (Questionable). Source-dependent and requires verification. This additive may be derived from either halal (plant/synthetic) or haraam (animal) sources. Always check the product label or contact the manufacturer to verify the source.
What is E491 used for?
E491 is used as a emulsifier - oil-in-water emulsifier in food products.
What foods contain E491?
E491 (Sorbitan Monostearate) is commonly found in: cake mixes, confectionery coatings, coffee whiteners.
What is E491 made from?
E491 can be derived from the following sources: sorbitol + stearic acid (plant or animal fat).
What are the other names for E491?
E491 may appear on food labels as: Span 60, Sorbitan Monostearate.
thickeners, gelling agents, phosphates, humectants, emulsifiers — 68 E-codes: 30 Halal, 0 Haraam, 38 Mushbooh
Related E-Codes in thickeners, gelling agents, phosphates, humectants, emulsifiers
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