It’s important to know which numbers are not vegan. When many of us first go vegan, we spend a lot of time staring at ingredient labels. One of the most confusing parts is the E numbers. They sound scientific, they look complicated, and it’s not always clear which ones are vegan or not. If you feel lost, you’re not alone. This guide makes it simple.
Which E Numbers Are Not Vegan? (Understanding E Numbers)
E numbers are short codes used for food additives in lots of packaged foods. Instead of long chemical names, companies use these codes to keep ingredient lists tidy. Some E numbers come from plants. Others come from animals. And some can come from either source depending on who makes the ingredient.
Here’s something important to remember:
Even if an additive is vegan, it doesn’t automatically mean it’s healthy. For example:
- Soy lecithin may cause stomach discomfort for some people
- Citric acid can cause rare allergic reactions
- MSG is sometimes linked with headaches or overeating
This guide highlights only the E numbers that are always animal-derived so you can easily spot which E numbers are not vegan and avoid them when shopping.
Which E Numbers Are Not Vegan? (Quick Guide)
Below is a quick list of E numbers that are never vegan. If you spot one of these on a label, the product is not suitable for vegans.
| E Number | Name | Category | Animal Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| E120 | Carmine / Cochineal | Colour | Crushed insects |
| E441 | Gelatin | Emulsifier | Animal bones / skin |
| E542 | Bone phosphate | Anticaking agent | Animal bones |
| E631 | Disodium inosinate | Flavour enhancer | Meat or fish |
| E901 | Beeswax | Glazing agent | Honey bees |
| E904 | Shellac | Glazing agent | Lac insects |
| E913 | Lanolin | Glazing agent | Sheep wool |
| E966 | Lactitol | Sweetener | Cow’s milk |
| E1105 | Lysozyme | Preservative | Chicken eggs |
Let’s look at each one see which E number is not vegan
1. Carmine / Cochineal – not vegan
Carmine is made from crushed cochineal insects. These insects produce a red pigment, which is used to colour foods like candies, yogurts, jams, and some iced drinks. It also appears in makeup and shampoos. If you see “carmine,” “cochineal,” or “E120,” it is not vegan.
2. Gelatin – not vegan
Gelatin comes from boiling animal skin, ligaments, and bones. It creates a jelly-like texture and is often found in marshmallows, gummy bears, fruit snacks, and gelatin desserts.
3. Bone Phosphate – not vegan
E542 is made by grinding animal bones. It stops powders from clumping together, so it’s used in some supplements, tablets, and even toothpaste.
4. Disodium Inosinate – not vegan
E631 is a flavour enhancer often added to chips, instant noodles, soups, and savoury snacks. It usually comes from fish or meat, although it can be made by fermentation. Because it is commonly animal-derived and not labelled either way, vegans should avoid it.
5. Beeswax – not vegan
Beeswax is made by honey bees. It is used to coat sweets, make chewing gum shiny, and glaze some fruits and chocolates.
6. Shellac – not vegan
Shellac is a resin produced by female lac insects. It is used on candies, chocolates, pills, and even nail polish. Harvesting shellac often harms the insects, which is why it is not vegan.
7. Lanolin – not vegan
Lanolin is an oily substance from sheep’s wool. It is commonly found in creams, lip balms, soaps, and other skincare products.
8. Lactitol – not vegan
Lactitol is a sweetener made from milk sugar (lactose). It is found in low-calorie sweets, chewing gum, and some baked goods.
9. Lysozyme – not vegan
Lysozyme comes from egg whites. It is used in certain cheeses, processed foods, infant formula, and some medicines.
A Simple Way to Know What is Not Vegan
Look for clues:
- “Beeswax,” “honey,” “shellac,” “lanolin,” “gelatin,” or “bone” = not vegan
- Words like “inosinate,” “lactose,” or anything referring to fish or meat = not vegan
To make life easier, you can download our free printable guide (coming soon) and keep it in your kitchen.
Want Help Reading E number Food Labels that is not vegan
If you’d like even more support figuring out ingredients, additives, and confusing label wording, we recommend this helpful guide from Sarah’s Vegan Guide.
It’s a simple, friendly resource that explains how to read labels with confidence — perfect if you ever feel unsure in the grocery aisle.
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Let’s Discuss!
Do you have questions about E numbers?
Have you spotted any unexpected ones in your favourite foods?
Share your thoughts in the comments — we’d love to help!
