Depends on the source
- Usually made from
- Animal or plant fats
- Used as
- anti-caking agent, emulsifier
- Vegan
- Depends on the source
Plant-based versions are common. Look for “vegetable origin” or a halal certificate.
What is E572?
A fine white powder made by combining fatty acids, mainly stearic and palmitic acid, with a magnesium compound such as magnesium oxide. The fatty acids come from edible fats and oils, which may be vegetable oils such as palm oil or animal fats such as tallow or lard.
Why it's marked “Depends on the source”
The magnesium part is mineral, but the fatty acid part can come from plant oil or from animal fat, including lard. The finished powder looks and tests the same either way, so the source can only be known from the supplier.
Where views differ
Some scholars accept fatty acid salts made from non-halal animal fat because processing turns the fat into a new substance. Others do not accept this kind of change and want a plant source or fat from halal-slaughtered animals.
How to check the label
On supplements and tablets, look for “vegetable magnesium stearate”, “from palm oil”, a vegan mark or a halal certificate from a recognised body. Otherwise ask the manufacturer about the fat source.
Where you'll find it
- food supplement tablets
- capsules
- pressed mints
- powdered mixes
Good to know
- E572 is not an official EU number. In the EU, magnesium stearate falls under E470b (magnesium salts of fatty acids); the Codex system lists it as INS 470(iii).
- JECFA set an acceptable daily intake of “not specified” for magnesium stearate in 2015.
- EFSA's 2018 re-evaluation of E470a and E470b found no safety concern; industry said the fatty acids come from vegetable oils or animal fats such as lard and tallow.
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 salts of fatty acids E 470a and E 470b (2018)
- JECFA specifications for magnesium stearate (2015)
Frequently asked questions
Is E572 halal?
Depends on the source. The magnesium part is mineral, but the fatty acid part can come from plant oil or from animal fat, including lard. The finished powder looks and tests the same either way, so the source can only be known from the supplier.
What is E572 made from?
A fine white powder made by combining fatty acids, mainly stearic and palmitic acid, with a magnesium compound such as magnesium oxide. The fatty acids come from edible fats and oils, which may be vegetable oils such as palm oil or animal fats such as tallow or lard.
Is E572 vegan?
It depends on the source. E572 can be made from plant or animal material, so look for a vegan or vegetarian label.