Sorbitan Oleate God Cleansing Agent No known benefits Sorbitan Oleate at a glance Emulsifier and cleansing agent Also used in food preparations Ruled safe as used in cosmetics Yellow to brown liquid in its raw form Sorbitan Oleate description Sorbitan oleate is an emulsifier and cleansing agent in cosmetics. It is also used as a clarification agent in food preparations. The United States Food and Drug Administration has given sorbitan oleate Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status for use in foods and it has also been ruled safe as used in cosmetics. Use levels of sorbitan oleate in cosmetics are typically between 0.5–5% depending on the type of formula and desired stability and/or aesthetic needs. In its raw form, sorbitan oleate is a viscous liquid that is yellow to brown in color.