High Speed Emulsifiers are closely related to stabilizers, which are substances that maintain the emulsified state. The consistency of food products may also be improved by the addition of thickeners, used to add body to sauces and other liquids, and texturizers. These various additives serve a dual purpose: they make food more appetizing by improving appearance and consistency, and they augment its keeping qualities (i.e., extend shelf life).

Emulsifiers, stabilizers, and related compounds are also used in the preparation of cosmetics, lotions, and certain pharmaceuticals, where they serve much the same purpose as in foods—i.e., they prevent separation of ingredients and extend storage life.