Is Sorbitan Monostearate (E491) Halal?

MUIS lists E491 (Sorbitan Monostearate) as doubtful (mashbooh), which means the source cannot be confirmed from the E-number alone — not that it is haram. It can be made from plant-based or animal-derived materials, so the same E-number may be halal from one manufacturer and not from another. The reliable check is a recognised halal certification logo on the finished product, or a manufacturer statement of the source.

Sorbitan monostearate (Span 60) is a non-ionic emulsifier prepared from sorbitol and stearic acid. The doubtful classification reflects that stearic acid can be sourced from either animal or vegetable fats.

• whipped toppings
• cake icings
• yeast
• ice cream
• non-dairy coffee whitener

• Look for a recognised halal certification logo (MUIS, JAKIM, MUI, HMC or similar) on the packaging — certified products have had the source of this additive verified.
• Check whether the label states the origin, for example 'vegetable origin', 'plant-based' or 'soy'.
• If there is no certification and the origin is not stated, contact the manufacturer or choose a product with a halal alternative.

sorbitan tristearate (E492), polysorbate 60 (E435), mono- and diglycerides (E471)

E491 (Sorbitan Monostearate) is doubtful for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Sorbitan monostearate (Span 60) is a non-ionic emulsifier prepared from sorbitol and stearic acid.

Sorbitan monostearate (Span 60) is a non-ionic emulsifier prepared from sorbitol and stearic acid. The doubtful classification reflects that stearic acid can be sourced from either animal or vegetable fats.

E491 is commonly found in whipped toppings, cake icings, yeast, ice cream, and non-dairy coffee whitener.