Is Lactic Acid vegan?

Vegan· E270

Industrial lactic acid is made by fermenting plants. Despite the name, vegan.

What it is

An acid produced by bacterial fermentation of beet sugar, corn or cane.

Why vegan

Microbial fermentation, no animal inputs in commercial production.

Where you'll find it

  • Sour candies
  • Pickles
  • Bread
  • Skincare

Vegan alternatives

  • N/A — already vegan

FAQ

Doesn't 'lactic' mean milk?
It was first isolated from milk, but industrial lactic acid is plant-fermented.

Sources

Last reviewed June 4, 2026

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