How is polysorbate 80 extracted from sorbitol?

Question

Polysorbate 80 is derived from the sorbitol found in fruits and berries. Is alchohol used in the process?

Answer 1

Polysorbate 80 is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from polyoxylated sorbitan and oleic acid, and is often used in foods. Polysorbate 80 is a viscous, water-soluble yellow liquid. The hydrophilic groups in this compound are polyethers also known as polyoxyethylene groups which are polymers of ethylene oxide. In the nomenclature of polysorbates, the numeral designation following polysorbate refers to the lipophilic group, in this case the oleic acid (see polysorbate for more detail).

Polysorbate 80 is often used in ice cream to prevent milk proteins from completely coating the fat droplets. This allows them to join together in chains and nets, to hold air in the mixture, and provide a firmer texture, holding its shape as the ice cream melts.