Thorne's Standard Vitamin D3 and Lanolin
Thorne is known for high-quality, science-backed supplements. However, vegans need to be aware of the ingredients in Thorne's products. Most of Thorne's standard vitamin D3 products, including high-potency capsules, are not vegan. The cholecalciferol (D3) in these supplements comes from lanolin, a waxy substance from sheep's wool.
To make vitamin D3, sheep's wool is washed, and lanolin is extracted. Cholesterol is taken from the lanolin and processed to create 7-dehydrocholesterol. This compound is then exposed to ultraviolet light, which mimics how the human body makes vitamin D3 from sunlight. Although the final compound is identical to the D3 produced by the human body, the origin is animal-derived, which means it is not vegan.
Vegan-Friendly Thorne Products
Thorne offers specific products for vegan consumers. The company has a "Vegan Certified" program that ensures each ingredient is free of animal products, even during processing.
A notable product that contains vegan-sourced D3 is Daily Greens Plus. Thorne states that this formula uses vegan-sourced vitamin D3, unlike their single-ingredient D3 supplements. This is important for vegan customers who trust Thorne but need to avoid animal-sourced ingredients.
Thorne Standard D3 vs. Vegan D3 Alternatives
This table compares Thorne's standard D3 to vegan alternatives, which are often sourced from lichen.
| Feature | Thorne Standard Vitamin D3 | Vegan-Sourced Vitamin D3 (Lichen) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Lanolin (sheep's wool) | Lichen (symbiotic fungus and algae) |
| Vegan Status | Not vegan | Yes, certified vegan |
| Final Molecule | Cholecalciferol (D3) | Cholecalciferol (D3) |
| Potency | Generally effective | Equivalent to lanolin-sourced D3 |
| Key Ingredient | 7-dehydrocholesterol from wool fat | Extracted from specific lichen species |
Finding Vegan Vitamin D Options
Vegans should look for plant-based vitamin D. While the debate over vitamin D2 versus D3 continues, many supplement companies have developed vegan vitamin D3 derived from lichen.
- Lichen-Based D3: Lichen, a symbiotic organism of algae and fungus, has become a sustainable and effective vegan source for cholecalciferol (D3). Many brands offer lichen-based D3, a preferred option for vegans looking for the potency associated with D3.
- Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol): Vitamin D2, derived from fungi and yeast, is always vegan. Some studies suggest it may be less potent or maintain blood levels for a shorter duration than vitamin D3. Mushrooms exposed to UV light are a good dietary source of D2.
- Check for Certification: Vegans should look for a "Vegan-Verified" label or other certifications when buying supplements, especially those containing vitamin D3. The source is the key factor.
Labels and Sourcing
Knowing the origins of ingredients is important for a plant-based lifestyle. Reading labels and understanding the difference between animal-derived and plant-derived nutrients is essential.
Here are steps to help you find vegan vitamin D:
- Check the ingredient list: Look for the specific source. If it says "lanolin" or doesn't specify, assume it is not vegan.
- Look for certification: Check for a certified vegan logo.
- Search the brand website: Many companies, including Thorne, list their vegan-certified products.
- Look for lichen-sourced D3: If D3 is your preference, look for brands that state their product is derived from lichen.
For a list of reliable vegan vitamin D3 brands, resources like Vegan.com offer recommendations. This ensures your commitment to a plant-based diet extends to all your supplements.
Conclusion
Most of Thorne's single-ingredient D3 products come from lanolin and are not vegan. However, the company offers vegan alternatives in specific formulations, such as the Daily Greens Plus. For a guaranteed plant-based source, lichen-derived D3 is available from various brands. Informed label-reading and understanding vitamin D sourcing are essential for any vegan consumer.
