Vegan E-Numbers — The Complete Guide

Which E-numbers are vegan? Of the 335 additives covered here, 268 are always vegan, 7 are never vegan, and 60 depend on the source — and the label won't tell you which.

'Always vegan' additives are plant-derived, mineral or synthetic in all normal food production. 'Never vegan' are animal-derived by definition. 'Check the source' additives can be made from either plant or animal materials — a certified vegan logo is the only label-level guarantee.

For the short version, see our always-vegan E-numbers list. The animal surprises are on the E-numbers from animals page.

Never vegan

These additives are animal-derived in all food uses.

Check the source

Can be plant or animal-derived. Verify with the manufacturer or look for vegan certification.

Always vegan

Plant-derived, mineral or synthetic in all standard production.

When the label genuinely can't tell you

The ‘check the source’ additives above (E322, E422, E471 and the rest) are the real limitation of label reading — the ingredients list is legally accurate but doesn't say whether that specific batch used a plant or animal source, and manufacturers aren't required to disclose it further. Contacting the manufacturer works but is slow, and not every company replies. A food allergy or sensitivity panel that specifically screens for animal-derived proteins is a more direct way to find out if a mystery reaction traces back to a hidden animal-derived additive, rather than repeatedly guessing from the label alone.

Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA. General information only — not medical or dietary advice.