Is lactylated fatty acid esters of glycerol and propane-1 vegan?

Lactylated fatty acid esters of glycerol and propane-1 is an incomplete label name for lactylated fatty acid esters of glycerol and propane-1,2-diol, a food additive known by the code E478. This compound is used primarily as an emulsifier and aerating agent in commercial baked goods, cake mixes, shortenings, and whipped toppings. It is synthesized by reacting glycerol, propane-1,2-diol, lactic acid, and fatty acids.

The ingredient is considered possibly vegan because both the glycerol and the fatty acids used in its production can originate from plant or animal sources. Plant-derived versions utilize vegetable oils such as palm, soybean, or rapeseed oil, whereas animal-derived versions utilize rendered fats from cattle, pigs, or other livestock. The lactic acid component is typically derived from bacterial fermentation of plant carbohydrates, but the origin of the fatty acids remains ambiguous on most labels.

Because standard product packaging does not specify whether the raw fats came from vegetation or animals, consumers cannot verify its status by reading the ingredient list alone. Checking for an official vegan certification on the package or contacting the product manufacturer is necessary to confirm the source.