E481: Sodium stearoyl-2-lactylate

Emulsifier. Origin: Plant or animal (varies by manufacturer).

Vegan

Depends on the source

Halal

Mushbooh (doubtful)

The honest version

Built from stearic acid, which can be plant or animal in origin. Usually plant-based today, but not provably so from the label.

When our checker meets E481 on a label, it does not guess: products carrying ambiguous additives get a “check the label” verdict, with the ingredient named, so you can decide or ask the manufacturer.

Classifications reflect common manufacturing practice and mainstream certifier positions; individual products and certifiers can differ. Not medical, nutritional or religious advice.