Common Alternative Names for Polysorbate 60
The most recognizable alternative name for polysorbate 60 is Tween 60, a widely used brand name for this compound. This name is frequently encountered in cosmetic formulations and household products. From a chemical perspective, its scientific name is polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, which provides a detailed breakdown of its molecular structure. Other, less common synonyms also exist, depending on the regulatory body or industrial context. Some examples include PEG-20 sorbitan stearate and the food additive code E435.
Why Polysorbate 60 Has Multiple Names
The reason for the different names is tied to its application and chemical classification. The name "polysorbate 60" is a general classification, while the brand name "Tween 60" is specific to the manufacturer who popularized it. Its chemical name, polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, describes its molecular structure, indicating that it is a sorbitan monostearate condensed with an average of 20 units of ethylene oxide. This provides chemists and researchers with precise information. Knowing these different names is crucial for ingredient-conscious consumers and manufacturers who source raw materials globally.
The Function and Applications of Polysorbate 60
Polysorbate 60 is a powerful non-ionic surfactant, which means it reduces the surface tension between different substances. This property makes it an excellent emulsifier, allowing oil- and water-based ingredients to mix and remain stable over time without separating. It is also a stabilizer, helping to maintain product consistency and extend shelf life by preventing ingredients from breaking down. This functionality is valued across many industries, including food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial manufacturing.
Applications in the Food Industry
- Baked goods: Used to improve dough handling, increase loaf volume, and create a finer crumb texture.
- Dairy products: Keeps ingredients in ice cream and other frozen desserts uniformly dispersed, resulting in a smoother texture.
- Salad dressings: Prevents the oil and vinegar from separating, maintaining a consistent emulsion.
- Confectionery: Helps with stability and creates a lighter texture in icings and sweet fillings.
Applications in Cosmetics and Personal Care
- Creams and lotions: Helps blend the oil and water phases to create a smooth, consistent product.
- Shampoos and conditioners: Aids in dispersing oils and fragrances and can enhance foaming properties.
- Makeup and serums: Improves the application and consistency of products, ensuring even distribution of active ingredients.
Other Industrial Uses
Polysorbate 60 also finds use in various industrial applications, such as textile manufacturing, leather processing, and pesticide formulations, where its emulsifying and dispersing properties are highly beneficial. It can also be used to stabilize nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery systems in cutting-edge technology.
Comparison of Polysorbate 60, 65, and 80
| Feature | Polysorbate 60 (Tween 60) | Polysorbate 65 (Tween 65) | Polysorbate 80 (Tween 80) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fatty Acid | Monostearate (derived from stearic acid) | Tristearate (3 stearic acid molecules) | Monooleate (derived from oleic acid) |
| Appearance | Yellowish waxy solid or semi-gel at room temperature | Yellowish, oily, waxy substance | Amber viscous oily liquid at room temperature |
| HLB Value | 14.9 | ~10.5 | ~15.0 |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and ethanol; insoluble in mineral oil | Dispersible in water; soluble in oil | Soluble in water, ethanol, and various solvents |
| Primary Use | Emulsifier for oil-in-water emulsions, stabilizer | Co-emulsifier for water-in-oil emulsions, thickening agent | Emulsifier for oil-in-water emulsions, solubilizer |
The Manufacturing Process
Polysorbate 60 is created through a process called ethoxylation, which involves reacting sorbitol, typically from corn syrup, with stearic acid and ethylene oxide. This process attaches the polyoxyethylene chain to the sorbitan-stearate ester. The number '60' indicates that stearic acid was used as the fatty acid component. This creates the hydrophilic (water-loving) head and the lipophilic (oil-loving) tail of the molecule, which is crucial for its function as an emulsifier.
Safety and Regulation
As a food additive, polysorbate 60 (E435) has been deemed safe by major regulatory bodies, including the FDA in the US and EFSA in Europe, within prescribed usage limits. In cosmetics, concentrations are also monitored, with experts recommending use at lower percentages to minimize the potential for mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals. When ingested in large quantities, gastrointestinal discomfort can occur, but this is typically outside the normal consumption levels found in food products. Proper handling is also recommended in manufacturing to avoid respiratory irritation from inhaling aerosols.
Conclusion
To summarize, while polysorbate 60 may appear under different labels, it is most commonly known as Tween 60 or polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate. Its primary role as a versatile emulsifier and surfactant makes it an indispensable ingredient in a wide array of products, from baked goods to personal care items. Understanding these different names and its function is key to navigating product labels and appreciating the science behind many modern commercial products. It's a testament to the fact that seemingly simple ingredients often have complex identities and crucial roles.
Visit the FDA website to learn more about the safety of food additives.
