Loading…
Doubtful — depends on source
E481 (Sodium stearoyl-2-lactylate, SSL) is a dough-conditioning emulsifier whose stearic-acid (stearoyl) part can be plant- or animal-derived — so it is treated as doubtful (mushbooh) unless the source is known.
SSL is an emulsifier and dough conditioner made from stearic acid (a fatty acid) and lactic acid. It strengthens dough and improves texture in baked and processed foods.
Stearic acid is reacted with lactic acid and neutralised with sodium. The stearic acid can come from vegetable oil or animal fat — the label rarely says which.
SSL is doubtful because its stearic-acid component can be plant- or animal-derived, and the source is usually unstated. Plant-derived SSL is halal; animal-fat SSL is only permissible if from a halal animal. Verify before assuming.
It may be found in — this does not mean every product below contains it.
Sodium stearoyl lactylateSSLE481Emulsifier (E481)INS number: 481
In Singapore, verify the finished product on the MUIS HalalSG register or contact the manufacturer, since the stearic-acid source is usually not printed on the label.
Check MUIS HalalSGSources: EFSA, FAO/WHO, MUIS · Last reviewed: July 2026 · This guidance is not certification.
It is doubtful (mushbooh). Its stearic acid can be plant- or animal-derived, and the source is usually unstated — verify with certification or the manufacturer.
Its stearic acid can be animal-derived (possibly including pork sources), but it is also commonly plant-derived. Confirm via certification or the manufacturer.
'Sodium stearoyl lactylate', 'SSL' or 'E481'.
Humble Halal methodology: we classify additives by their common origin, not by any specific product. A generally-halal ingredient does not make a finished product halal-certified. This page is general guidance, not certification or religious/legal advice — always verify the complete product. Last reviewed July 2026.