Is Castoreum vegan?
Not vegan
Castoreum is a vanilla-like flavouring from beaver scent glands. Not vegan (though rarely used today).
What it is
Yellow secretion from the castor sacs of beavers near the base of the tail.
Why not vegan
Animal-derived. Use is now rare due to cost and supply, but it remains a legal 'natural flavor'.
Where you'll find it
- Some historical vanilla and raspberry flavourings
- A handful of perfumes
Vegan alternatives
- Real vanilla extract
- Synthetic vanillin
FAQ
- Is castoreum common in food today?
- No — fewer than 300 lb are used annually in the US, mostly in perfumery.
Sources
- The Vegan Society — Definitions & ingredients
- PETA — Animal-derived ingredients list
- FDA — Food additive status list
Last reviewed June 4, 2026