Polysorbate 20
The short version
Tween 20 — a high-HLB polysorbate used in beverage clouding, dressings, and protein-stabilization.
It's widely considered safe at the amounts used in food, so we mark it green. The Safety section below has the details.
Where it comes from
Manufactured by ethoxylating sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20). The 20 ethylene oxide groups grafted on dramatically increase water solubility while keeping the lauric-acid tail.
How it's used
Used in beverage clouding-agent systems, in salad dressings and pickles, and as a protein-stabilizing surfactant in supplement and pharmaceutical preparations. Often paired with Span 20 (E493) for combined emulsion stabilization. Particularly common in clear-to-cloudy beverages.
Safety profile
ADI of 0–25 mg/kg body weight (combined polysorbates). Like other polysorbates, included in recent dietary-emulsifier observational studies on gut-microbiome effects.
Physical & chemical properties
Yellow viscous oily liquid. Soluble in water and most polar solvents. Mild characteristic odor.
Regulation worldwide
Permitted globally with maximum-use limits per category.
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.