E 432 Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate (polysorbate 20)

What is E 432?

E 432 is the E number of Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate (polysorbate 20). Emulsifier from the polysorbate group. It is used in baked goods, ice cream and sauces.

What is E 432 used for?

E 432 belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as emulsifier.

• Emulsifier: Emulsifiers combine ingredients that would not otherwise mix, such as oil and water, and keep the mixture stable.

Which foods may contain E 432?

According to the European Commission's database, E 432 may be used in 21 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

• Dairy products and analogues
• Fats and oils and fat and oil emulsions
• Edible ices
• Fruit and vegetables
• Confectionery
• Bakery wares
• Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
• Foods for specific groups (infants, young children, special medical purposes)
• Beverages
• Desserts
• Food supplements
• Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17

Is E 432 vegan?

Vegan depending on origin: may come from plant or animal raw materials. The label usually does not say which.

Is E 432 linked to genetic engineering?

No typical link to genetic engineering is known for this substance: it is not usually obtained from plants for which GM varieties exist, nor produced by fermentation.

How does E 432 appear on the label?

In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Emulsifier: E 432" or "Emulsifier: Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate".