Polysorbate 80

Sorbitan mono-9-octadecanoate poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivatives; complex mixtures of polyoxyethylene ethers used as emulsifiers or dispersing agents in pharmaceuticals.

Polysorbate 80 is an additive used in processed food products for its emulsifying properties (ability to prevent fats from separating out). Commercially produced frozen desserts, shortenings, baking mixes and icings, and canned vegetables are some of the foods that may contain polysorbate 80. Additionally, it is used as a dispersing agent for fat-soluble vitamins in vitamin-mineral dietary supplements and is commonly used in many pharmaceutical drugs. If it is included in a product, it should be noted on the list of ingredients found on the label.

Polysorbate 80 may compromise proper gastrointestinal function. Research studies have repeatedly shown that it can increase intestinal membrane permeability (how much the intestinal membrane allows to pass through into the bloodstream) through a variety of means including causing the release of enzymes that damage the structure of the cells that make up the intestinal membrane.

Because polysorbate 80 increases intestinal permeability, it has been shown to also increase both the absorption and action of some pharmaceutical drugs. Additionally, polysorbate 80 may affect the body\'s ability to absorb nutrients, notably of ionic minerals such as potassium and calcium.

Commercially produced frozen desserts, shortenings, baking mixes and icings, and canned vegetables are some of the foods that may contain polysorbate 80. Additionally, it is used as a dispersing agent for fat-soluble vitamins in vitamin-mineral dietary supplements and is commonly used in many pharmaceutical drugs. If it is included in a product, it should be noted on the list of ingredients found on the label.

Polysorbate 80 may compromise proper gastrointestinal function. Research studies have repeatedly shown that it can increase intestinal membrane permeability through a variety of means including causing the release of enzymes that damage the cellular structure. As an outcome of its ability to increase intestinal permeability, polysorbate 80 has been shown to increase both the absorption and action of some pharmaceutical drugs. Additionally, polysorbate 80 may alter nutrient absorption, notably of ionic minerals such as potassium and calcium.