Tag: Calcium stearoyl lactylate

Over 70% of lactic acid, a key component used to create lactylates, is now produced from plant-based sources through fermentation. Knowing whether a specific lactylate is vegan requires understanding the origin of all its ingredients, which can be animal or plant-derived.

Lactylates were first developed in the 1950s as a food additive to improve dough strength and delay the staling of bread. Fundamentally, these compounds are a class of chemical emulsifiers known for their ability to stabilize mixtures of oil and water in a wide variety of food and cosmetic products.

Despite its name causing frequent confusion, lactylate is a dairy-free emulsifier typically made from plant-based sources and is safe for most individuals avoiding dairy. This article clarifies the distinction between lactylates and milk products, explaining its origin and why it’s not considered dairy.