Are Acetic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides (E472a) Vegan?

Also known as: ACETEM, INS 472a, Acetoglycerides, Acetylated mono- and diglycerides, Acetic and fatty acid esters of glycerol

Related additives: Acetic acid (E260), Triacetin (E1518), Mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids (E471)

Depends on Source

Last checked 15 Oct 2026 How we decide

E472a depends on the fat behind its glycerides. The mono- and diglycerides come from vegetable oils or from animal fats such as tallow and lard, and the E number does not say which. A supplier statement or vegan certification settles it.

What are Acetic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides?

E472a is a mixture of glycerol esters that carry acetic acid and fatty acids. It acts as an emulsifier.

Which animal, and does it die

Comes from: cattle or pig, via tallow or lard
Requires slaughter: Yes

Vegetarian depends on the source

From a mammalRelevant to alpha-gal syndrome
Pig is a common sourceRelevant to halal and kosher diets

These flags describe sourcing. They are not an allergen assessment, and a vegan label is not a free-from claim. If you have an allergy, read the allergen declaration on the pack.

Ingredient Data

Vegan Status

Depends on Source

E-Number

E472a

Also Known As

ACETEM; INS 472a; Acetoglycerides; Acetylated mono- and diglycerides; Acetic and fatty acid esters of glycerol

Source

Made by reacting mono- and diglycerides with acetic anhydride, or by trans-esterifying fats with triacetin. The EU specification takes the fatty acids from food fats and oils without limiting them to plants. EFSA points to an industry list of fat sources for E472a that names vegetable oils as well as lard and tallow.

Commonly Found In

Shelf-stable desserts, chilled and frozen desserts, and baking ingredients and mixes, based on the product labels EFSA checked.

Vegan Alternative

Acetic acid esters made from vegetable oil, confirmed by the supplier or marked with a vegan certification.

Additional Notes

Ask the supplier which fat or oil supplied the glycerides, since the acetic acid part comes from fermentation of carbohydrates or from chemical synthesis.

Frequently asked questions

Is E472a the same as ACETEM?

Yes. ACETEM is the trade abbreviation for acetic acid esters of mono- and diglycerides. Acetoglycerides and acetylated mono- and diglycerides are listed synonyms.