| Emulsification | Interactions | Crystallization | Other |
| o/w emulsions | Protein | Sugar crystallization | Aeration |
| w/o emulsions | Starch | Fat crystallization & rancidity | Anti-microbial |
The Functionality of sucrose esters differs with the degree of esterification and the type of fatty acids used. The primary functionality is emulsification of w/o-emulsions or o/w-emulsions.