Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate
Also known as: E487, sodium laurilsulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate, NaDS
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SDS) is permitted in the US for very specific food applications under 21 CFR 172.822 with strict use limits. It is not a general-use food additive and is not approved as a food additive in the EU.
What it is
Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), a surfactant. E487 is not a recognized EU food additive number; SDS is approved for limited uses in the US.
Used as an emulsifier and whipping agent in egg whites and gelatin processing under specific FDA-permitted uses.
Why it's flagged
- limited approved food uses
- potential GI irritation at higher levels
What regulators actually say
"Sodium lauryl sulfate may be safely used in food, subject to the following restrictions: as a whipping agent in dried egg whites at not to exceed 0.1 percent..."
"Use of sodium lauryl sulfate is limited to specific applications and not permitted as a general food emulsifier."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted with restrictions under 21 CFR 172.822 for specific applications
European Union — EFSA
Not approved as general food additive in EU; E487 not assigned
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