Emulsifier, thickener or gelling agent

Is E491 (E491 Sorbitan Monostearate) halal?

Halal if it is 100% from plant fat, Haraam if it is from pork fat

Source-dependentDoubtful until the source is known (mashbooh)

Halal if it is 100% from plant fat, Haraam if it is from pork fat

Source

Halal if it is 100% from plant fat, Haraam if it is from pork fat
Source-dependent Halal Authority India (certifier reference table · accessed 2026-08-21)

Classification as published in the Halal Authority India food ingredient numbers reference, the additive table used by halal certifiers across South Asia. Cross-checked against the IFANCA Halal Shopper's Guide.

Quick facts

E-numberE491
NameE491 Sorbitan Monostearate
Additive classEmulsifier, thickener or gelling agent
ClassificationSource-dependent
Last verified2026-08-21

Common questions

Is E491 (E491 Sorbitan Monostearate) halal?

E491 Sorbitan Monostearate is classified as Source-dependent. Halal if it is 100% from plant fat, Haraam if it is from pork fat

Is E491 Sorbitan Monostearate halal or haram?

On the evidence cited on this page, E491 Sorbitan Monostearate is source-dependent. Doubtful until the source is known (mashbooh) Every position is attributed to a named certifier or scholarly body with a link, so you can verify it directly.

Why isn't there a single yes/no answer for E491?

Because the ruling depends on information the label does not carry — the source material, the production route, or which scholarly position you follow. This page shows each named position with a link so you can check it yourself.

Where does this page's information come from?

Every position on this page is attributed to a named certifier or scholarly body with a direct link, listed under 'What the sources say'. Muttoo aggregates and cites; it does not issue rulings.

Related lookups

Record enumber-e491-sorbitan-monostearate · last verified 2026-08-21 · report an error