Polysorbate 60 (Tween 60)

Polysorbate 60, commercially known as Tween 60, is a non-ionic surfactant and multifunctional emulsifier produced by the reaction of sorbitan (a sugar-derived compound) with stearic acid, followed by ethoxylation with ethylene oxide.
Due to its strong emulsifying capability and ability to form stable oil-in-water (O/W) systems, it is widely used across the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.

Chemical Structure

• Chemical Name: Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate

• Molecular Formula: C₆₄H₁₂₆O₂₆

• Average Molecular Weight: ≈ 1315 g/mol

• Chemical Type: Non-ionic surfactant

• HLB Value: ≈ 14.9 (ideal for O/W emulsions)

• Structure Description:

  • Hydrophilic portion: Polyoxyethylene chain

  • Lipophilic portion: Sorbitan stearate backbone

This dual (hydrophilic-lipophilic) structure makes Polysorbate 60 an ideal emulsifier for creating stable and uniform formulations.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Applications

1. Food Industry

• Used in cakes and pastries to increase volume and improve softness

• In ice cream to prevent ice crystal formation and improve smoothness

• In whipped toppings to stabilize foam and enhance creamy texture

• Acts as an emulsifier in sauces, margarines, and dairy-based products

2. Cosmetics and Personal Care

• Provides smooth and stable texture in creams and lotions

• Used in shampoos and conditioners as a dispersing and stabilizing agent

• Enhances permeability of active ingredients in skincare formulations

3. Pharmaceutical Industry

• Serves as a carrier and stabilizer in liquid and semi-solid preparations

• Improves solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs

• Enhances stability of heat- or light-sensitive formulations

Advantages

• Multifunctional: Suitable for a wide range of industries

• High Safety: Approved for use within permissible limits by FDA and EFSA

• Excellent thermal and chemical stability

• Highly compatible with other surfactants and additives

• Forms stable emulsions even under challenging processing conditions

Limitations

• May cause mild irritation to skin or eyes upon direct contact

• Possible allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially at high concentrations

• Instability at very high pH levels or extreme temperatures

Safety and Handling

• Regulatory Status: Safe for use in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals according to FDA and EFSA guidelines

• Storage Conditions:

  • Store between 20–30°C, away from direct sunlight

  • Keep in tightly closed, corrosion-resistant containers

  • Avoid long-term exposure to high humidity

• HSE Precautions:

  • Use protective gloves and safety goggles during handling

  • In case of eye contact, rinse immediately with plenty of water

Summary

Polysorbate 60 (Tween 60) is a versatile, non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier that plays a crucial role in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.
Its unique balance of hydrophilic and lipophilic groups provides excellent emulsifying power, enhancing product stability, texture, and shelf life.
Selecting this ingredient in formulation development helps optimize production efficiency, improve end-product quality, and ensure greater customer satisfaction.