Sucrose Esters of Fatty Acids (E 473)

Last reviewed October 19, 2026

In plain words: Sucrose esters of fatty acids (E 473) are emulsifiers made from sucrose and fatty acids. They help oil and water stay mixed in foods such as baked goods, desserts and some beverages.

Also listed on labels as: Sucrose esters of fatty acids, Sucrose fatty acid esters, E473

What do regulators say?

• EU: EFSA published a refined exposure assessment of E 473 as a food additive in 2018 (doi:10.2903/j.efsa.2018.5087, checked 2026-10-19).
• US: listed as a food additive at 21 CFR 172.859, "Sucrose fatty acid esters" (eCFR, checked 2026-10-19).

Published research: what individual studies found

These are findings from individual published studies and food-safety agency opinions, credited to each paper. Each one is labeled by type of evidence. They do not change any verdict, evidence grade or score on this site.

Evidence type: EFSA re-evaluation (2018)

• EFSA (2018) estimated that intake of sucrose esters (E 473) may exceed the ADI (40 mg/kg bw/day) for several groups, especially toddlers and children, in this scenario. EFSA said these estimates 'very likely overestimated the real exposure.'
• About the ADI: An ADI is a safety benchmark with a built-in margin. An estimate above it is not a measured intake and doesn't mean harm has occurred.
• Source: EFSA FAF/ANS Panel, EFSA J, 2018 · doi:10.2903/j.efsa.2018.5087

For information only, not medical advice. Studies are cited to their authors' published papers; the researchers aren't affiliated with and don't endorse Let Me Scan That or any product. A study link doesn't mean an ingredient causes harm. Report an error

Related guides

• Emulsifiers, Gums and Thickeners: What Families Should Know
• Mono- and Diglycerides

Sources

1. EFSA, Refined exposure assessment of sucrose esters of fatty acids (E 473), EFSA J, 2018. Link
2. eCFR, 21 CFR 172.859 Sucrose fatty acid esters. Link

This page is for general education. It is not medical advice and does not replace advice from your doctor, pediatrician, allergist or registered dietitian. Research changes; we review these pages when new evidence or rules come out. Last reviewed October 19, 2026.