What is E471?
E471 is Mono- and Diglycerides of Fatty Acids — the most common emulsifier in food — made from fats that can be plant or animal in origin, so vegans and halal consumers must check.
What is E471 (Mono- and Diglycerides of Fatty Acids)?
E471 is the E-number for mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids, one of the emulsifiers group of food additives (E400–E499). Additives in this group help mix ingredients that would normally separate, like oil and water. Made from fatty acids that can come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fats. E471 is the workhorse emulsifier of the food industry, found in a huge share of supermarket products. Most EU production is now plant-based (often palm oil), but the label never tells you the source — only the manufacturer can confirm. Like every E-number, E471 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E471 in detail below.
Where is E471 found?
E471 is typically used in bread, margarine, chocolate, ice cream, cakes and processed foods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E471) or by its full name, mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids. Common foods that may contain E471 include:
- Sliced bread
- Margarine and spreads
- Ice cream
- Biscuits and cakes
- Crisps
Full guide: foods containing E471 and how to spot it on labels →
E471 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Mono And Diglycerides safe?
Is E471 safe?
E471 is approved for use in the EU, UK and US at regulated levels, but some concerns or conditions apply. For most people, normal dietary exposure to E471 is not considered harmful.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — acceptable daily intake (ADI) or conditions of use apply
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E471 vegan?
E471 is uncertain for vegans — it is made from fatty acids that can come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fats, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Full vegan status guide for E471 →Is E471 halal?
E471 is mashbooh (doubtful) — made from fatty acids that can come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fats. Verify the source with the manufacturer or choose halal-certified products.
Full halal status guide for E471 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E471 in food?
E471 is Mono- and Diglycerides of Fatty Acids — the most common emulsifier in food — made from fats that can be plant or animal in origin, so vegans and halal consumers must check.
Is E471 safe to eat?
E471 is approved at regulated levels in the EU, UK and US, but some concerns exist — see the safety section above. Most people can consume it in normal amounts without harm.
Is E471 vegan?
E471 is uncertain for vegans — it is made from fatty acids that can come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fats, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Is E471 halal?
E471 is mashbooh (doubtful) — made from fatty acids that can come from plant oils (including palm) or animal fats. Verify the source with the manufacturer or choose halal-certified products.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).