Are Tartaric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides (E472d) Vegan?

Also known as: TATEM, INS 472d, Mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids esterified with tartaric acid

Related additives: Tartaric acid (E334), DATEM (E472e), Mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids (E471)

Depends on Source

Last checked 15 Oct 2026 How we decide

E472d depends on the fat behind its glycerides. EFSA found no published manufacturing method for it and counted it on only 57 product labels between 2014 and 2019. The tartaric acid EFSA recommends, L(+)-tartaric acid, is made from wine by-products or from maleic anhydride.

What are Tartaric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides?

E472d is a mixture of glycerol esters that carry tartaric 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

E472d

Also Known As

TATEM; INS 472d; Mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids esterified with tartaric acid

Source

The EU specification defines E472d as esters of glycerol with tartaric acid and fatty acids from food fats and oils. EFSA found no published manufacturing method, and a 2015 reference work it cites reports no manufacturers of this substance. EFSA recommends L(+)-tartaric acid, which industry makes from wine tartar, lees and grape pomace or from maleic anhydride.

Commonly Found In

Bread, cakes and pastries, though EFSA found it labeled on only 57 products between January 2014 and September 2019.

Vegan Alternative

Tartaric 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. A pack that lists DATEM carries E472e, a different tartaric ester with the same fat question.