What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
emulsifier
Example
Lecithin is an emulsifier commonly used in salad dressings. [emulsifier: noun]
Example
The recipe calls for adding an emulsifier to the mixture to prevent separation. [emulsifier: noun]
stabilizer
Example
Xanthan gum is a common stabilizer used in ice cream to prevent ice crystal formation. [stabilizer: noun]
Example
The addition of a stabilizer to the lotion helps to keep it smooth and creamy. [stabilizer: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stabilizers are more commonly used than emulsifiers in food production, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. This is because stabilizers are used in a wider range of products and applications, while emulsifiers are more specific to products that require mixing of oil and water-based ingredients.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between emulsifier and stabilizer?
Both emulsifiers and stabilizers are technical terms used in scientific and industrial contexts, making them more formal than everyday language. However, they can also be used in informal settings when discussing food, cosmetics, or pharmaceuticals.