Are esters de propane-1-2-diol d'acides gras vegan?

"Esters de propane-1-2-diol d'acides gras" is a French ingredient term that translates to propane-1,2-diol esters of fatty acids, a food additive commonly known as propylene glycol esters of fatty acids or E477. It is produced by reacting propylene glycol with fatty acids derived from edible fats and oils. Manufacturers use this compound as an emulsifier, aerating agent, and stabilizer in processed foods, frequently adding it to packaged cake mixes, commercial baked goods, margarine, whipped toppings, and powdered dessert mixes.

This additive is considered possibly vegan because the fatty acids required for its synthesis can originate from either plant or animal sources. Plant-based fatty acids are typically extracted from oils such as soybean or palm oil, whereas animal-based fatty acids are derived from rendered fats such as tallow or lard. Because product packaging rarely discloses the biological source of the starting fats, consumers must look for an official vegan certification on the package or contact the manufacturer to confirm whether a specific batch uses plant-derived ingredients.