Is e392 vegan?

E392 is the European additive code for extracts of rosemary, an additive used primarily as an antioxidant to preserve food freshness. It is derived from the leaves of the rosemary plant, Rosmarinus officinalis. Manufacturers produce the extract by treating dried rosemary leaves with food-grade solvents, such as ethanol, hexane, or supercritical carbon dioxide, to isolate active antioxidant compounds like carnosic acid and carnosol. It is commonly found in packaged goods with high fat contents, including vegetable oils, snack crisps, processed sauces, dressings, and plant-based meat alternatives.

This ingredient is classified as vegan because it is entirely of plant origin. The raw starting material is exclusively botanical, and the extraction techniques used during manufacturing do not incorporate animal tissues, fats, or animal-derived processing aids. Because no animal sources exist for this additive, E392 is always suitable for a vegan diet.