Is E170 Vegan?
E170, often referred to as Calcium Carbonate, is a common food additive that raises numerous questions, particularly among vegans. So, is E170 vegan? Let’s explore the details.
What is E170?
E170, or Calcium Carbonate, is a compound that occurs naturally in a wide variety of forms. It’s commonly found in rocks, particularly limestone, and is the main component of shells of marine organisms, snails, pearls, and eggshells.
What is E170 Used For?
E170 is used for several purposes in the food industry. It serves as a firming agent in many recipes, a flour treatment agent in baking, a color retention agent in fruits and vegetables, and an acidity regulator in various food and drink products. Furthermore, it is used as a calcium supplement in food and beverages.
What Food Contains E170?
You can find E170 in a broad spectrum of foods, including baking powder, icing, confectionery, and wine. It is also used in soy milk and other plant milks to increase the calcium content.
What is E170 Made Of?
E170 is made from limestone, which is mined from quarries. It can also be made synthetically by mixing two chemicals together — calcium oxide and carbon dioxide.
Is E170 Vegan?
Yes, E170 is vegan. It is derived from minerals, not animal products. However, to provide complete transparency, let’s break this down further.
Potential Animal Testing of E170
Like many other food additives, E170 may have been tested on animals in the past during its safety assessment process. However, this doesn’t change the fact that the ingredient itself is vegan, as the vegan status depends on the source and production process, not the testing methods.
Animal-Derived Ingredients in E170
E170 does not contain any animal-derived ingredients. It’s made from limestone or created synthetically, making it a vegan-friendly ingredient.
Origins and Production of E170
E170 originates from limestone, which is mined from the earth, or it can be produced synthetically. No animal products or by-products are involved in its production.
E170 in a Vegan Diet
E170 can be safely included in a vegan diet. Its mineral origin and versatile functions make it a common addition to a variety of vegan-friendly foods and drinks.
Is E170 Safe?
As per the latest research, E170 is generally recognized as safe for consumption. Nonetheless, it is always advised to consume food additives in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.
Final Thoughts
E170, or Calcium Carbonate, is a vegan-friendly food additive. Its mineral origin and the absence of animal-derived ingredients in its production process make it a safe and suitable option for vegans. However, like all food additives, it should be consumed responsibly within a balanced dietary pattern.
