Are Fatty Acids (E570) Vegan?

Also known as: Linear fatty acids, INS 570

Related additives: Stearic acid, Oleic acid, Palmitic acid, Lauric acid

Depends on Source

Last checked 15 Oct 2026 How we decide

Fatty acids (E570) depend on the fat they come from. The EU specification says only 'obtained from oils and fats', and EFSA reports that they are made by splitting animal and vegetable fats. Ask the supplier which fat was used, or look for a vegan mark.

What are Fatty Acids?

E570 covers seven linear fatty acids: caprylic, capric, lauric, myristic, palmitic, stearic and oleic acid, alone or mixed. EU specifications describe the additive as a colorless liquid or white solid obtained from oils and fats.

Which animal, and does it die

Comes from: cattle, pig or other livestock, via animal fat
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

E570

Also Known As

Linear fatty acids; INS 570

Source

Producers split animal or vegetable fats and oils into glycerol and free fatty acids, then separate the individual acids by fractionation. Caprylic and capric acid come from coconut oil, palmitic acid from palm oil and other natural fats, and stearic acid from animal fats as well as some vegetable oils.

Commonly Found In

Authorized without a numerical limit in 67 food categories, among them dairy analogues, edible ices, bread and fine bakery wares, chewing gum, sauces and snacks; industry reported actual use in only 8 of them (EFSA 2017).

Vegan Alternative

Fatty acids documented as made from coconut, palm or other vegetable oil.

Additional Notes

The label gives E570 or the acid name, and neither tells you the fat. Ask the supplier which fat or oil was split, or look for a certified vegan mark.

Frequently asked questions

Is E570 the same as stearic acid?

E570 is a group of seven fatty acids, and stearic acid is one of them. A product that lists stearic acid as E570 falls under this entry.

Are fatty acid salts the same as E570?

No. The sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium salts of fatty acids are E470a and E470b and have their own entry. They are made from fatty acids like those in E570, so the same fat question applies.