Sorbitan esters are a group of compounds formed by the esterification of sorbitol, a sugar alcohol, with fatty acids. They are commonly used as emulsifiers, helping to mix oil and water in various products, including food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Their ability to stabilize mixtures makes them valuable in many formulations. These esters are often labeled with the prefix "sorbitan" followed by the fatty acid name, such as sorbitan monostearate. They are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by regulatory agencies, making them suitable for use in food products. Their versatility and effectiveness contribute to their widespread application in different industries.