Sodium stearoyl lactylate

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Sodium stearoyl lactate (and the similar calcium stearoyl lactate) is made by combining lactic acid and stearic acid, and then reacting the result with sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide to make the sodium or calcium salt. It is used as an emulsifier in processed foods.

Replacing the lactic acid with fumaric acid gives sodium steroyl fumarate, a compound with same uses as the other two.

On The Shelf

These products are derived from animal body parts that are boiled. The stearic acid is then extracted from the layers of other by-products. Stearoyl-2-lactylates are found in the majority of manufactured breads, buns, wraps and tortillas, and many similar bread-based products.