E487 – Sodium laurylsulfate
EmulsifierDescription
Anionic surfactant (detergent), emulsifier, and foaming agent. A sodium salt of dodecyl hydrogen sulfate, used primarily as a processing aid, whipping agent (e.g., egg whites), or wetting agent in specialized food applications.
Notes
Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) is a synthetic compound created by treating lauryl alcohol—which comes from coconut oil or palm kernel oil—with sulfuric acid, then neutralizing it with sodium hydroxide. Think of it as a soap-like molecule that has one end that loves water and another end that loves oil, making it excellent at bringing these two normally incompatible substances together. In food, SLS works as an emulsifier and whipping agent, helping to create stable foams and ensuring that oil and water-based ingredients mix properly and stay mixed. You'll find it in some marshmallows, dried egg products, and certain beverage mixes where a light, foamy texture is desired. It's the same ingredient that makes your shampoo and toothpaste foam up, but in much smaller amounts in food. While SLS is synthetic, it's derived from natural plant oils and is considered safe for consumption in the small amounts used in food products. It's suitable for vegetarians and vegans since it comes from plant sources, and it doesn't contain any major allergens. However, some people with sensitive skin may prefer to limit their exposure to SLS in personal care products, though the amounts in food are typically much lower than in cosmetics.