Is Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate (E481) Vegan?

Vegan status: Depends on Source

E-number: E481

Also known as: SSL, Calcium stearoyl lactylate (E482)

Source

Produced from stearic acid (which can be animal-derived or plant-derived) reacted with lactic acid and sodium. Stearic acid from animal fat = not vegan; from vegetable oil = vegan. Source is rarely declared.

Commonly found in

Bread, baked goods, cake mixes, coffee whiteners. Used as a dough strengthener and emulsifier.

Vegan alternative: Contact the manufacturer to confirm the stearic acid source.

Notes

An extremely common baking additive. The vegan status hinges entirely on the stearic acid source. Some manufacturers use exclusively vegetable-derived stearic acid — particularly in Europe where palm-derived alternatives are common.