Is E491 Vegan?
E491 (Sorbitan Monostearate) may or may not be vegan — it depends on the source. It is made from sorbitol and stearic acid, which can be plant (including palm) or animal derived, and the ingredients label never tells you which source was used.
Why is E491 uncertain?
Made from sorbitol and stearic acid, which can be plant (including palm) or animal derived. Manufacturers can legally use either source and simply list 'E491' or 'Sorbitan Monostearate' on the label. In practice most modern production is plant-based or synthetic, but without confirmation from the manufacturer or a vegan certification logo, you can't be sure.
What can vegans look for instead?
The safest options are: (1) choose products carrying a certified vegan logo, which guarantees a plant or synthetic source was used; (2) contact the manufacturer and ask directly about the source of E491; or (3) choose products that don't list E491 at all.
Is E491 vegetarian?
Possibly not — like its vegan status, the vegetarian status of E491 depends on whether an animal or plant source was used, which the label doesn't reveal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is E491 always non-vegan?
No — E491 is often plant-derived or synthetic, and in many products it is vegan. The problem is that the label doesn't distinguish, so each product needs verifying.
How can I tell if E491 is vegan in a specific product?
Check for a certified vegan logo on the packaging — that's the only label-level guarantee. Otherwise contact the manufacturer's customer service and ask specifically about the source of E491 in that product.
Are there vegan-friendly versions of E491?
Yes — plant-based and synthetic versions of E491 are common, and products with vegan certification will always use them. The label alone just can't tell you which version a given product contains.
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Vegan status follows the Open Food Facts additive taxonomy (ODbL licence). Sources may vary by manufacturer — check packaging or look for certified vegan labelling.