Sodium laurylsulfate

Food additives Europe numbers: E487 

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a common ingredient you might see on labels for various products, but it has interesting applications in both the food and non-food world. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know about SLS in the context of food additives:

Function in Food:

• Limited Use: Unlike its widespread use in cleaning products and cosmetics, SLS has limited applications as a food additive [1].
• Emulsifier and Thickener: When used in food, SLS acts as an emulsifier, helping to stabilize mixtures of ingredients that wouldn't normally blend well, like oil and water. This can be useful in specific food products to create a smooth texture or prevent separation [2]. It can also function as a thickener in some cases.

Safety:

• Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) with Limitations: Regulatory bodies like the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) consider SLS safe for its limited use in food at specific concentrations [3]. However, unlike some other food additives, SLS can irritate the digestive system in some people, especially at higher intakes [4].

Why Limited Use?

• Alternatives: There are other emulsifiers and thickening agents available for food applications that might be gentler on the digestive system [5].
• Public Perception: Due to its association with harsher cleaning products, some consumers might be wary of SLS in food.

Overall:

While technically approved for limited use in food as a GRAS ingredient, sodium lauryl sulfate is not a common food additive. Safer alternatives often take its place. If you have any concerns about SLS or other food additives, consulting a registered dietitian can provide more personalized guidance.