Is Stearic Acid vegan?
Depends
Short answer
Stearic Acid is depends. Stearic acid can be plant- or animal-derived. Source rarely listed.
Key takeaways
- Verdict: Stearic Acid is depends.
- Commonly found in: Soap and cosmetics, Candles, Food (as anti-caking agent), Pharmaceuticals.
- Vegan alternatives: Certified vegan cosmetics, Products specifying 'vegetable stearic acid'.
- Scan any barcode with VeggieOS (100% free) for an instant vegan verdict.
What it is
A saturated fatty acid used as an emulsifier and thickener.
Why depends
From beef/pork tallow or from plants (palm, coconut, shea). Petroleum-based versions also exist.
Where you'll find it
- Soap and cosmetics
- Candles
- Food (as anti-caking agent)
- Pharmaceuticals
Vegan alternatives
- Certified vegan cosmetics
- Products specifying 'vegetable stearic acid'
FAQ
- Is magnesium stearate vegan?
- Same answer — depends on the source. Most pharmaceutical magnesium stearate today is vegetable-derived but always check.