Is sodium stearoyl lactylate vegan? It depends on the fat
Usually from plant fats, but the source is rarely stated. Look for a vegan logo.
The full answer
Sodium stearoyl lactylate (SSL, E481) is made from two parts: lactic acid and stearic acid. The lactic acid is plant-fermented and vegan. The question is the stearic acid.
Stearic acid is a fatty acid found in both plant oils and animal fats. Most SSL today uses stearic acid from palm or soybean oil, but some is made from beef tallow, and the label won't tell you which.
The "lactylate" part has nothing to do with milk, so SSL is dairy-free either way. The only open question for vegans is the fat source.
If you need to be sure, look for a certified vegan logo or contact the brand. Many large bakeries confirm their SSL is plant-based when asked.
What to look for on the label
- Certified vegan logo
- "Plant-based" or "from vegetable sources" next to the emulsifier
- The same applies to calcium stearoyl lactylate (E482)
Other diets
Looking for bread that's certified vegan?
Plant-based picksCertified vegan sandwich bread
The vegan logo covers the emulsifiers too.
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Common questions
Does sodium stearoyl lactylate contain dairy?
No. The name comes from lactic acid, which is made from plant sugars.
Is SSL halal?
Only if the fat source is plant-based or halal-slaughtered beef. Look for halal certification.
Safety score, rules by country, health notes and swaps.