Sodium stearoyl lactylate

Sodium stearoyl lactate (and the similar calcium stearoyl lactate) is an organic compound used as a food additive.

It 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 stearoyl fumarate, a compound with same uses as the other two.

Stearoyl-2-lactylates are found in the majority of manufactured breads, buns, wraps and tortillas, and many similar bread-based products.

Lactose intolerant people may find this substance to be troubling to their digestive system.