Is E270 halal?

What is E270?

Lactic acid is a mild acid made mostly by bacterial fermentation of sugars from sources such as maize starch, sugar beet or sugar cane. It can also be made synthetically. Despite the name, it is not normally made from milk, although milk sugar can be used as a feedstock.

Why it's marked “Generally halal”

It is made by bacteria fermenting sugars, or by chemical synthesis. This kind of fermentation does not produce alcohol, and no animal ingredient is needed, so it is generally treated as halal. When milk sugar is used, the source is milk, which is also halal.

How to check the label

No special check is needed. Vegans who want to rule out a dairy feedstock can ask the manufacturer, but most lactic acid is made from plant sugars.

Where you'll find it

• sour sweets
• olives and pickles
• salad dressings
• baked goods
• soft drinks

Good to know

• US rules describe commercial production by fermenting carbohydrates such as glucose, sucrose or lactose, or by chemical synthesis.
• It forms naturally in yoghurt, sauerkraut and sourdough, and in your muscles during hard exercise.
• Its salts, such as sodium lactate (E325) and calcium lactate (E327), are related additives.

Similar additives

• E330 Citric acid Generally halal
• E331 Sodium citrates Generally halal
• E415 Xanthan gum Generally halal
• E621 Monosodium glutamate (MSG) Generally halal
• E260 Acetic acid Generally halal
• E296 Malic acid Generally halal

See all 89 E-numbers in the halal checker

This list describes where additives usually come from. It isn't a religious ruling, and manufacturers can change their sources. Last reviewed: 14 October 2026.

Sources

1. US eCFR 21 CFR 184.1061: lactic acid

Frequently asked questions