Is e339(ii) vegan?

The food additive e339(ii) is the European code for disodium phosphate, also known as disodium hydrogen orthophosphate. It is commercially manufactured by neutralizing phosphoric acid, which is derived from mined mineral phosphate rock, with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate. In food manufacturing, disodium phosphate functions as an emulsifier, pH buffer, thickener, and moisture-retention agent. It frequently appears on ingredient labels for plant-based milk alternatives, processed cereals, instant puddings, baked goods, canned soups, and powdered drink mixes.

Disodium phosphate is considered vegan because its production relies entirely on inorganic mineral sources and chemical synthesis. No animal tissues, bone products, or animal-derived processing aids are used during the extraction or refinement of the phosphate salts. Because it contains no animal-derived raw materials at any stage of manufacturing, e339(ii) is suitable for individuals following a strictly vegan diet.