Which e-numbers & additives are vegan?
Short answer
Of the 12 e-numbers & additives we track, 6 are not vegan, 3 depend on sourcing, and 3 are reliably vegan. Tap any ingredient for the full verdict, label names and alternatives.
Key takeaways
- Not vegan: Bone Phosphate (E542), Castoreum, Castoreum (in 'natural flavors'), E441 — Gelatin (additive code), Lysozyme (E1105), Shellac (E904).
- Depends on sourcing: Disodium 5-Ribonucleotides (E635), Disodium Guanylate (E627), Disodium Inosinate (E631).
- Reliably vegan: Carnauba Wax (E903), Citric Acid, Lactic Acid.
- Scan any barcode in the free VeggieOS app for an instant vegan verdict.
Not vegan (6)
Is Bone Phosphate (E542) vegan?
E542
E542 is extracted from defatted animal bones. Not vegan.
Is Castoreum vegan?
Castoreum is a vanilla-like flavouring from beaver scent glands. Not vegan (though rarely used today).
Is Castoreum (in 'natural flavors') vegan?
Castoreum is a secretion from beaver glands, occasionally used in 'natural vanilla flavor'. Not vegan.
Is E441 — Gelatin (additive code) vegan?
E441
E441 is the EU additive code for gelatin. Not vegan.
Is Lysozyme (E1105) vegan?
E1105
E1105 is extracted from chicken egg whites. Not vegan.
Is Shellac (E904) vegan?
E904
E904 is the additive code for shellac, a resin from lac insects. Not vegan.
Depends (3)
Is Disodium 5-Ribonucleotides (E635) vegan?
E635
A 50/50 blend of E627 and E631. Vegan status depends on the E631 source.
Is Disodium Guanylate (E627) vegan?
E627
Like E631, originally from fish; modern E627 is usually microbial. Source rarely listed.
Is Disodium Inosinate (E631) vegan?
E631
E631 was historically extracted from fish or meat. Modern E631 is usually microbial. Source is rarely disclosed.
Vegan (3)
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
- Which e-numbers & additives are not vegan?
- Bone Phosphate (E542), Castoreum, Castoreum (in 'natural flavors'), E441 — Gelatin (additive code), Lysozyme (E1105), Shellac (E904) are animal-derived and not vegan.
- How do I check a e-numbers & additive on a label?
- Look for the ingredient name or its E-number in the ingredients list, then check it here. You can also scan the barcode in the free VeggieOS app for an instant vegan verdict.