Is Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate (E481) Vegan?

Also known as: SSL, Calcium stearoyl lactylate (E482)

Depends on Source

Produced from stearic acid (which can be animal-derived or plant-derived) reacted with lactic acid and sodium. Stearic acid from animal fat = not vegan; from vegetable oil = vegan. Source is rarely declared.

Ingredient Data

Vegan Status

Depends on Source

E-Number

E481

Also Known As

SSL; Calcium stearoyl lactylate (E482)

Source

Produced from stearic acid (which can be animal-derived or plant-derived) reacted with lactic acid and sodium. Stearic acid from animal fat = not vegan; from vegetable oil = vegan. Source is rarely declared.

Commonly Found In

Bread, baked goods, cake mixes, coffee whiteners. Used as a dough strengthener and emulsifier.

Vegan Alternative

Contact the manufacturer to confirm the stearic acid source.

Additional Notes

An extremely common baking additive. The vegan status hinges entirely on the stearic acid source. Some manufacturers use exclusively vegetable-derived stearic acid — particularly in Europe where palm-derived alternatives are common.

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