Is Biotin an Animal Product? Understanding Its Sources

December 14, 2025 •

4 min read

While biotin is found naturally in a variety of foods, both plant- and animal-based, its origin can vary depending on whether it is sourced from food or a supplement. This versatility means the question, "Is biotin an animal product?" has a nuanced answer, as it can be derived from different sources, including plant materials, yeast, and even synthetic processes.

Quick Summary

Biotin is not strictly an animal product, as it can come from both animal and plant sources. Its specific origin depends on the food or supplement it's in, with many vegan and synthetic options available.

Key Points

Diverse Sources: Biotin is found in both animal products (like eggs and liver) and plant-based foods (like nuts and sweet potatoes).
Synthetic Options: Most biotin supplements are made synthetically in a lab and are therefore not animal-derived.
Label Verification: For vegans or those concerned about sources, checking for 'vegan certified' or 'plant-based' labels on supplements is crucial.
Food vs. Supplement: The source of biotin depends entirely on whether you are getting it from whole foods or a commercial supplement.
Absorption Note: Biotin from raw egg whites is poorly absorbed due to a protein called avidin; cooking neutralizes this effect.
Deficiency Is Rare: Biotin deficiency is uncommon in healthy people with a varied diet, making supplementation often unnecessary.

Biotin's Dual Nature: Both Animal and Plant-Based

Biotin, or vitamin B7, is an essential water-soluble B vitamin crucial for metabolism and overall health. It acts as a coenzyme that helps the body convert food into energy. Biotin's presence is not exclusive to one type of food group; it is naturally occurring in both animal and plant products. This dual origin is the primary reason for confusion, but it also provides dietary flexibility for people with different eating preferences. For example, animal sources rich in biotin include liver, eggs, and salmon, while plant-based sources include nuts, seeds, and sweet potatoes.

Animal Sources of Biotin

Organ Meats: The liver is one of the most concentrated sources of biotin, reflecting its role as the body's storage site for the vitamin. A single serving of cooked beef liver can provide over 100% of the recommended daily value.
Eggs: The yolk of a cooked egg is another excellent source of biotin. However, it is crucial to consume eggs fully cooked, as raw egg whites contain avidin, a protein that can bind to biotin and prevent its absorption.
Fish: Certain types of fish, such as salmon and tuna, contain moderate amounts of biotin. This makes them a great option for those seeking a mix of omega-3s and biotin.
Dairy Products: While not as rich as liver or eggs, dairy products like milk and cheese also contribute small amounts of biotin to the diet.

Plant-Based and Synthetic Biotin

For vegans, vegetarians, or those simply preferring plant-based ingredients, a wide array of biotin-rich foods exists. Additionally, the vast majority of dietary supplements and cosmetic ingredients containing biotin are produced without animal products.

Legumes: Peanuts, soybeans, and other legumes are great sources of plant-based protein and biotin.
Nuts and Seeds: Sunflower seeds, almonds, and walnuts offer a satisfying way to boost your biotin intake.
Sweet Potatoes: This vibrant root vegetable is another significant plant source of biotin.
Yeast: Both nutritional yeast and brewer's yeast are packed with biotin and are a staple for many following a plant-based diet.
Synthetic Biotin: Most commercial biotin supplements and fortified foods contain synthetic, lab-produced biotin. This process is highly controlled and does not involve any animal derivatives. This makes synthetic biotin a reliable option for vegans and those with animal product sensitivities.

Natural vs. Synthetic Biotin Comparison


Feature	Natural Biotin (from food)	Synthetic Biotin (from supplements)
Source	Both animal and plant products, such as liver, egg yolks, nuts, and yeast.	Chemically synthesized in a lab, often starting from petroleum derivatives.
Purity	Varies by source; comes packaged with other vitamins, minerals, and proteins.	Typically a highly concentrated, isolated D-biotin molecule.
Absorption	Highly bioavailable, especially when cooked (e.g., eggs).	Oral absorption is highly efficient, with supplements offering a high dosage.
Cost	Part of regular grocery expenses.	Can be an added cost, especially for high-potency supplements.
Vegan Status	Can be vegan (if sourced from plants), but requires awareness of food source.	Almost universally vegan, as it's not derived from animal tissue.
Nutrient Synergy	Consumed alongside a broad spectrum of nutrients and cofactors.	Offers isolated biotin; needs to be taken alongside a balanced diet for full nutritional benefits.

Label Reading is Key

For anyone concerned about biotin's origin, particularly those on a vegan or vegetarian diet, reading product labels is essential. Dietary supplements and fortified foods must specify their ingredients. If a supplement is labeled 'vegan certified' or 'plant-based', the biotin has not been derived from animal sources. In cosmetic and personal care products, biotin is often listed in the ingredients list (INCI: BIOTIN) and is typically synthetic, though verification with the manufacturer is the only way to be 100% certain. Knowing the source of your biotin, whether from a food or a supplement, is the most effective way to align consumption with personal and ethical preferences.

Conclusion: Biotin is Not Exclusively an Animal Product

The answer to the question "Is biotin an animal product?" is no. Biotin is a vitamin found across both the animal and plant kingdoms, and it can also be produced synthetically. For those committed to an animal-free lifestyle, there are plenty of natural, plant-based food sources, such as sweet potatoes, nuts, and legumes. For supplementation, the vast majority of products on the market use lab-synthesized biotin, a non-animal derived ingredient, with many explicitly labeled as vegan. Ultimately, biotin's origin depends entirely on its source, and conscious consumers can easily find options that fit their dietary choices. For more specific ingredient inquiries, consulting the product manufacturer is always a good practice. To learn more about other B vitamins and their sources, consider researching the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements fact sheets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Biotin is found naturally in both plant-based and animal-based foods. While it is not inherently vegan, there are many vegan sources, and most commercial supplements are produced synthetically without animal products.

Vegans can get biotin from a variety of plant-based foods including nuts (almonds, peanuts), seeds (sunflower), legumes, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, and nutritional yeast. Many vegan-certified supplements are also available.

No, the biotin found in most dietary supplements is produced synthetically in a laboratory and is not derived from animal sources. It is important to check the product label for confirmation.

While rare, consuming excessive amounts of raw egg whites can prevent biotin absorption. Raw egg whites contain avidin, a protein that binds to biotin. Cooking the egg inactivates avidin, allowing for proper biotin absorption.

No, biotin is an essential B vitamin for all people, regardless of their diet. It helps everyone's body convert food into energy. The question of its origin is only relevant to those with specific dietary preferences.

Biotin deficiency is rare in healthy individuals who eat a balanced diet. Most people get adequate amounts from food, and supplementation is not necessary unless advised by a healthcare professional.

Biotin used in cosmetic and personal care products is typically synthetic, meaning it is not animal-derived. The INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) name for this ingredient is BIOTIN.