Is e170i vegan?

E170i is the European food additive code for calcium carbonate, a chemical compound used primarily as a white coloring, acidity regulator, and anti-caking agent. It is often obtained by processing geological rocks such as limestone and marble, but it can also be sourced from plants like calcified marine algae or from animal byproducts including oyster shells and eggshells. Manufacturers commonly include E170i in fortified plant-based milks, breakfast cereals, chewing gums, baked goods, and confectioneries.

E170i is possibly vegan because it can be produced from plant, mineral, or animal sources, and product labels generally do not disclose which origin was used. Versions derived from mineral stone or plant-based seaweed are suitable for a vegan diet, whereas versions extracted from shellfish or poultry eggshells are not vegan. Looking for an official vegan certification on the packaging or contacting the manufacturer directly is the only way to verify whether a specific product uses an animal-free source.