Cetyl Palmitate
Cetyl palmitate is a cosmetic-grade wax ester used as an emollient and viscosity modifier; the CIR Expert Panel reviewed related stearyl alkanoates and concluded comparable fatty acid esters are safe in the present practices of cosmetic use. It is not used in food.
What it is
Wax ester formed by reaction of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid (CAS 540-10-3); a key component of natural spermaceti substitutes.
Cosmetic emollient and consistency agent; not a food additive.
Why it's flagged
- not a food ingredient
- rare contact reactions in cosmetic use
What regulators actually say
"The Expert Panel concluded that stearyl heptanoate, stearyl caprylate, stearyl palmitate, stearyl stearate, stearyl behenate, and stearyl olivate are safe in the present practices of use and concentration."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted cosmetic ingredient; not a food additive
European Union — EFSA
Cosmetic ingredient under EU Regulation (EC) 1223/2009; not a food additive
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