Is Bone Phosphate (E542) vegan?
Not vegan· E542
E542 is extracted from defatted animal bones. Not vegan.
Also known as: edible bone phosphate, tricalcium phosphate from bone
What it is
An anti-caking agent and mineral supplement derived from bovine or porcine bones.
Why not vegan
Always animal-derived. Synthetic tricalcium phosphate (E341) is a vegan substitute but uses a different code.
Where you'll find it
- Powdered soups and seasonings
- Toothpaste
- Some calcium supplements
Vegan alternatives
- Tricalcium phosphate (E341) — synthetic, vegan
- Calcium carbonate from limestone
FAQ
- Is E542 common?
- Less so today; mostly replaced by synthetic E341. Always check ingredient lists in older or imported products.
Sources
Last reviewed June 4, 2026