Polysorbate 65

Polysorbate 65 (polyoxyethylene sorbitan tristearate) is a synthetic emulsifier made by ethoxylating sorbitan tristearate. It is the least commonly used of the food-grade polysorbates, with specialised applications in ice cream and frozen confectionery where it stabilises fat networks and controls ice crystal growth, contributing to a smoother texture on repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

JECFA's group ADI for polysorbates is 25 mg per kilogram body weight per day, evaluated in 1973. The safety profile and ongoing research concerns about gut microbiota effects are the same as for other polysorbates. At typical dietary exposures from food use, polysorbate 65 intake is a fraction of the group ADI and is not considered a significant safety concern by current regulatory authorities.

Polysorbate 65 is approved in the EU, US (GRAS), and most global markets. It is primarily encountered in premium ice cream products and certain frozen confectionery. For healthy adults there are no established health concerns at normal food additive exposures. As with all synthetic emulsifiers, consumers who prefer to minimise intake can choose products declaring natural emulsifiers on the label.