E 481 Sodium stearoyl-2-lactylate

What is E 481?

E 481 is the E number of Sodium stearoyl-2-lactylate. Emulsifier made from fatty acids and lactic acid. It improves dough and crumb in bread and baked goods.

What is E 481 used for?

E 481 belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as emulsifier, flour treatment agent.

• Emulsifier: Emulsifiers combine ingredients that would not otherwise mix, such as oil and water, and keep the mixture stable.
• Flour treatment agent: Flour treatment agents improve the baking quality of flour or dough.

Which foods may contain E 481?

According to the European Commission's database, E 481 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
• Fruit and vegetables
• Confectionery
• Cereals and cereal products
• Bakery wares
• Meat
• Foods for specific groups (infants, young children, special medical purposes)
• Beverages
• Ready-to-eat savouries and snacks
• Desserts
• Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17

Is E 481 vegan?

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

Is E 481 linked to genetic engineering?

Genetic engineering: May be obtained from plants for which genetically modified varieties exist, such as soya, maize, rapeseed or sugar beet. If the substance comes from a GM plant, this must be stated on the label in the EU (Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003).

In food labelled "ohne Gentechnik" and in organic food, such substances from or by genetically modified organisms are excluded in principle.

How does E 481 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 481" or "Emulsifier: Sodium stearoyl-2-lactylate".