Depends on the source
- Usually made from
- Animal or plant fats
- Used as
- emulsifier, stabiliser
- Vegan
- Depends on the source
Plant-based versions are common. Look for “vegetable origin” or a halal certificate.
What is E472?
E472 is a family of six emulsifiers made by attaching a food acid to mono- and diglycerides (E471): acetic acid (E472a), lactic acid (E472b), citric acid (E472c), tartaric acid (E472d), mono- and diacetyltartaric acid (E472e) and a mix of acetic and tartaric acids (E472f).
Why it's marked “Depends on the source”
All six share the same base, E471, whose fatty acids can come from plant oils or animal fats. The added acids are small food acids made by fermentation or chemical processes; tartaric acid can also come from wine-making residues. For every letter, the main question is which fat was used.
Where views differ
As with E471, views differ on whether the chemical change from fat to emulsifier (istihalah) makes the original source irrelevant. Those who do not accept this require a plant source or fat from halal-slaughtered animals.
How to check the label
Read the full code: EU labels should give the letter, such as E472e, or the chemical name. Then check the fat source as you would for E471: “vegetable origin”, a halal certificate, or an answer from the manufacturer.
Where you'll find it
- bread and rolls
- cakes and pastries
- whipped toppings
- margarine
- ice cream
Good to know
- Industry short names for four of them are ACETEM (E472a), LACTEM (E472b), CITREM (E472c) and DATEM (E472e).
- In 2020 EFSA found no need for a numerical ADI for E472a, b and c, and set ADIs of 480 mg/kg body weight per day for E472d and 600 for E472e and f.
Similar additives
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
- EFSA re-evaluation of E472a–f (2020)
- EU specifications for food additives, Regulation (EU) No 231/2012
Frequently asked questions
Is E472 halal?
Depends on the source. All six share the same base, E471, whose fatty acids can come from plant oils or animal fats. The added acids are small food acids made by fermentation or chemical processes; tartaric acid can also come from wine-making residues. For every letter, the main question is which fat was used.
What is E472 made from?
E472 is a family of six emulsifiers made by attaching a food acid to mono- and diglycerides (E471): acetic acid (E472a), lactic acid (E472b), citric acid (E472c), tartaric acid (E472d), mono- and diacetyltartaric acid (E472e) and a mix of acetic and tartaric acids (E472f).
Is E472 vegan?
It depends on the source. E472 can be made from plant or animal material, so look for a vegan or vegetarian label.