Sorbitan monostearate is a non-ionic surfactant commonly used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. It is derived from the esterification of sorbitol and stearic acid, which helps to stabilize emulsions by reducing surface tension between oil and water. This makes it useful in products like creams, lotions, and salad dressings. In addition to its emulsifying properties, sorbitan monostearate can also act as a thickening agent and a dispersing agent. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is widely used in various industries for its effectiveness and versatility.