Essential Knowledge for Vegan Label Reading
Being a vegan means a lot more than just avoiding meat and dairy; it involves a commitment to avoiding all forms of animal exploitation, which extends to a surprising number of food additives. In the EU, these additives are labelled with 'E' numbers, and while most are perfectly fine for vegans, a handful are a definite red flag. Furthermore, a significant number of E numbers are 'grey area' additives, which can be sourced from either plant or animal matter, making a little extra research necessary for the conscientious shopper. Knowing which category an E number falls into is key to making ethical purchasing decisions.
E Numbers That Are Never Vegan
This is the most straightforward group of E numbers to remember, as their origin is always non-vegan. Keeping a mental note or a quick reference list can make grocery shopping much simpler.
- E120 (Cochineal, Carmine): A vivid red colouring produced from the crushed shells of the female cochineal beetle. This is one of the most common and widely recognised non-vegan additives. It's often found in red-coloured sweets, yogurts, and juices.
- E441 (Gelatine): A gelling agent made by boiling down the skin, tendons, ligaments, and bones of animals like cows and pigs. It is a very common ingredient in sweets, jellies, and some desserts.
- E542 (Edible Bone Phosphate): An anti-caking agent and mineral supplement made from ground-up animal bones. It is sometimes found in dry food mixes and supplements.
- E901 (Beeswax): A glazing agent produced by honey bees. It gives a shiny finish to many confectionery products and is also used in polishes and cosmetics.
- E904 (Shellac): A resin secreted by the female lac bug, used as a glazing agent for confectionery, sweets, and fresh fruits to give a glossy coat.
- E913 (Lanolin): A waxy substance extracted from sheep's wool. While primarily used in cosmetics, it is also a source for Vitamin D3 production.
- E966 (Lactitol): A sweetener derived from lactose, or milk sugar, making it unsuitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance.
- E1105 (Lysozyme): An enzyme derived from chicken eggs, often used as a preservative in certain cheeses and wines.
E Numbers That Might Not Be Vegan
This category requires more careful investigation. These additives can be sourced from either plant or animal origins, and without clear labelling, you cannot be certain. For these, it's best to look for a certified vegan logo or contact the manufacturer directly.
- E471 (Mono- and Diglycerides of Fatty Acids): This emulsifier is used widely in baked goods, ice cream, and margarine. While typically plant-based, it can be made from animal fats. The source is rarely listed, making it a common 'check-the-label' item.
- E631 (Disodium Inosinate): A flavour enhancer found in snack foods like crisps and instant noodles. It is often sourced from meat and fish, but can also be produced from tapioca starch through bacterial fermentation.
- E920 (L-Cysteine): A dough conditioner that strengthens dough and improves shelf life. It is commonly derived from animal sources like duck feathers or pig hair, though synthetic versions also exist.
- E570 (Stearic Acid): A fatty acid used in many products, including chewing gum and flavorings. While it can come from plant sources, it is frequently derived from animal fat.
- E422 (Glycerol/Glycerin): A sweetener and solvent derived from animal fats or vegetable oils. A manufacturer must be contacted for clarification.
- E270 (Lactic Acid): Despite its name, lactic acid is usually produced by bacterial fermentation of carbohydrates and is vegan-friendly. However, dairy is sometimes used as a fermentation medium, and it is a known area of confusion.
Comparison Table: Vegan vs. Potentially Non-Vegan E Numbers
| E-Number | Name | Origin | Vegan Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| E120 | Cochineal (Carmine) | Crushed insects | NEVER VEGAN |
| E441 | Gelatine | Animal bones and hides | NEVER VEGAN |
| E542 | Edible Bone Phosphate | Ground animal bones | NEVER VEGAN |
| E901 | Beeswax | Secretions from bees | NEVER VEGAN |
| E904 | Shellac | Secretions from lac bugs | NEVER VEGAN |
| E471 | Mono- and Diglycerides of Fatty Acids | Plant or animal fats | POTENTIALLY NON-VEGAN |
| E631 | Disodium Inosinate | Meat, fish, or plant source | POTENTIALLY NON-VEGAN |
| E920 | L-Cysteine | Animal hair/feathers or plant source | POTENTIALLY NON-VEGAN |
How to Navigate Vegan-Ambiguous Additives
When faced with an E number that could be either animal or plant-derived, there are several steps you can take to be sure. The first and most reliable method is to look for a vegan certification mark on the product packaging, such as the Vegan Trademark from The Vegan Society. This provides assurance that all ingredients, including potentially ambiguous E numbers, are from non-animal sources. If no such certification is present, many vegans will check for a 'Suitable for Vegans' or similar statement, which can sometimes be found near the ingredients list.
For those who want to be 100% certain, or when the product lacks clear labelling, contacting the manufacturer is the next best step. Most large food manufacturers have customer service lines or email addresses, and a quick inquiry can often clarify the source of a specific ingredient. Many companies are now more transparent due to increasing consumer demand. Social media groups and online forums for vegans are also valuable resources, as members often share information about specific products and brand responses. Lastly, for some, the preference is to simply avoid any product containing potentially non-vegan E numbers if the source isn't explicitly clear.
The Importance of Continuous Learning
The landscape of food manufacturing is constantly evolving, with formulas and sourcing methods changing over time. Ingredients that were once animal-derived might now have synthetic or plant-based alternatives, and vice-versa. Therefore, relying on old information is not a foolproof strategy. Stay informed by regularly checking trusted vegan resources and label guides. This proactive approach ensures your food choices consistently align with your ethical commitments.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of E numbers doesn't have to be a daunting task for vegans. By familiarising yourself with the handful of E numbers that are always non-vegan, like E120 (carmine) and E904 (shellac), and understanding which additives, such as E471 and E631, require further investigation, you can make informed decisions with confidence. Look for official vegan certification logos, and don't hesitate to reach out to manufacturers for clarity when needed. With a little knowledge, you can ensure your shopping cart is free from all forms of animal exploitation. For further reference, check out The Vegan Society's helpful blog on common non-vegan ingredients: How to avoid buying non-vegan products.
