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Typical source

Stearic acid (plant or animal)

Plain-language explanation

Sorbitan tristearate is a synthetic emulsifier made from sorbitol, a sugar alcohol, and stearic acid, a fatty acid. Its halal status depends entirely on the source of the stearic acid; if it comes from a plant-based fat like palm oil, it is considered halal. However, if the stearic acid is derived from animal fat, it is only permissible if the animal was slaughtered according to Islamic law, otherwise it is haram. Major halal certification bodies therefore require verification of the fat source to approve this ingredient.