Tween 60, also known as polysorbate 60& polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate consists of sorbitol, ethylene oxide and stearic acid.
It has a molecular formula of C64H126O26. At room temperature it is a pale-yellow paste. It is an O/W emulsifier with an HLB value
of 14.9. It is soluble in water, ethanol, ethyl acetate and toluene.
Tween 60 is a popular food additive, it is used as emulsifiers in cake, protein drinks and ice-cream formulations; it can also act as a foaming agent in alcohol drinks; and as
dispersant in candy making. Besides, it can also act as a finisher and lubricant in the textile industry. It is often used in combination with sorbitan ester 60.