Depends on the source
- Usually made from
- Animal or plant fats
- Used as
- emulsifier
- Vegan
- Depends on the source
Plant-based versions are common. Look for “vegetable origin” or a halal certificate.
What is E472e?
DATEM is made by reacting mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids with diacetyltartaric anhydride, a compound made from tartaric acid and acetic anhydride. The result is a strong dough emulsifier that reinforces gluten, so bread rises higher and has a finer, softer crumb.
Why it's marked “Depends on the source”
The fat part of DATEM is E471, which can be made from plant oils or animal fats, and nothing on a bread label shows which. The tartaric acid part is a by-product of wine-making or is made chemically, and it contains no alcohol. The fat source is what decides the status.
How to check the label
On bread, DATEM may appear as E472e or as “mono- and diacetyltartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides”. A halal certificate or a “vegetable origin” note settles the question; otherwise ask the bakery or manufacturer.
Where you'll find it
- sliced bread
- bread rolls and buns
- baguettes
- frozen and part-baked dough
Good to know
- EU law allows E472e even in basic bread made only from wheat flour, water, yeast and salt, so plain-looking loaves can contain it.
- In 2020 EFSA set an ADI of 600 mg per kg body weight per day for E472e, based on the tartaric acid it releases.
- EFSA's tartaric acid review notes that natural L(+)-tartaric acid is made from wine tartar, lees and grape pomace, while some is produced chemically or with microbes.
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)
- EFSA re-evaluation of L(+)-tartaric acid and tartrates (2020)
- EU specifications for food additives, Regulation (EU) No 231/2012
Frequently asked questions
Is E472e halal?
Depends on the source. The fat part of DATEM is E471, which can be made from plant oils or animal fats, and nothing on a bread label shows which. The tartaric acid part is a by-product of wine-making or is made chemically, and it contains no alcohol. The fat source is what decides the status.
What is E472e made from?
DATEM is made by reacting mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids with diacetyltartaric anhydride, a compound made from tartaric acid and acetic anhydride. The result is a strong dough emulsifier that reinforces gluten, so bread rises higher and has a finer, softer crumb.
Is E472e vegan?
It depends on the source. E472e can be made from plant or animal material, so look for a vegan or vegetarian label.