Is e476 vegan?

E476 is the European food additive code for polyglycerol polyricinoleate, commonly known as PGPR. It is an emulsifier produced through the reaction of polyglycerol with condensed fatty acids extracted from castor bean oil. The polyglycerol portion is manufactured by heating plant-derived or synthetic glycerol, while the ricinoleic acid is harvested directly from castor plant seeds. Food manufacturers frequently add E476 to chocolate, compound confectionery coatings, low-fat spreads, and salad dressings to reduce friction between ingredients and improve viscosity.

E476 is vegan because it is derived entirely from plant and synthetic origins. The commercial manufacturing process utilizes castor oil and plant-based or synthetic glycerol, avoiding the use of animal fats, tissues, or byproducts. Because no animal sources are involved in its chemical synthesis or refinement, E476 is considered completely free of animal ingredients.