Is E494 (Sorbitan Monooleate / Span 80) Halal?

MUIS lists E494 (Sorbitan Monooleate / Span 80) 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 monooleate (Span 80) is a non-ionic emulsifier prepared from sorbitol and oleic acid. The doubtful classification reflects oleic acid's potential animal or vegetable origin.

• cake mixes
• ice cream
• whipped toppings
• salad dressings

• 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.

polysorbate 80 (E433), sorbitan monostearate (E491), mono- and diglycerides (E471)

E494 (Sorbitan Monooleate/Span 80) is doubtful for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Sorbitan monooleate (Span 80) is a non-ionic emulsifier prepared from sorbitol and oleic acid.

Sorbitan monooleate (Span 80) is a non-ionic emulsifier prepared from sorbitol and oleic acid. The doubtful classification reflects oleic acid's potential animal or vegetable origin.

E494 is commonly found in cake mixes, ice cream, whipped toppings, and salad dressings.