Is Vitamin D3 Vegan?

Vegan status: Depends on Source

Also known as: Cholecalciferol, Ergocalciferol (D2, vegan form)

Source

Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is most commonly derived from lanolin (sheep's wool grease) via UV irradiation. A vegan alternative is derived from lichen (algae-fungi organism). Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) is always vegan (yeast-derived).

Commonly found in

Fortified plant milks, fortified cereals, dietary supplements, some margarines and spreads.

Vegan alternative: Vitamin D3 from lichen (Vitashine, Nordic Naturals Algae Omega) or Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol, always plant-derived).

Notes

Oatly and many plant milks use lichen-derived D3. Check the supplement brand — most capsule D3 supplements are lanolin-derived unless labeled 'vegan D3.'