Animal Product Ingredients
We've indexed 16 animal product ingredients. Of those, 15 non-vegan, 1 that depend on the source. Use this hub to look up any animal product on a label and find vegan alternatives where needed.
What are animal product ingredients?
Animal products are ingredients derived directly from animals, insects, or animal by-products. They include meat, dairy, eggs, honey, gelatin, and many less obvious additives. None are considered vegan under the Vegan Society definition.
Animal Product at a glance
Non-vegan animal product ingredients to avoid
Common E-numbers in this category
Commonly found in
All animal product ingredients (16)
Albumen
The protein found in egg whites, used as a binder in baking and processed foods.
Ambergris
A solid, waxy, flammable substance produced in the digestive system of sperm whales, historically used as a fixative in luxury perfumes.
Anchovies
Small, saltwater forage fish that are commonly salt-cured and used to add a distinct salty, umami flavor to sauces and dishes.
Bee Pollen
A mixture of flower pollen, nectar, enzymes, honey, and wax collected by foraging honeybees. It is sold as a dietary supplement and often added to health foods.
Chondroitin Sulfate
A chemical normally found in cartilage around joints, heavily marketed alongside glucosamine as a joint health supplement.
Civet Oil
An intensely pungent glandular secretion that, when highly diluted, adds a floral, musky warmth to high-end perfumes.
Collagen
A structural protein used in supplements, cosmetics, and food.
Elastin
A highly elastic protein used in high-end anti-aging skincare products to promote skin flexibility.
Gelatine (Beef)
A protein derived from boiling the skin, tendons, ligaments, and bones of cattle. It is used as a gelling agent, thickener, and stabilizer in a wide range of food products.
Keratin
A structural protein used extensively in hair care products (shampoos, treatments) to smooth frizz and repair damage.
Propolis
A resinous mixture that honey bees produce by mixing saliva and beeswax.
Rennet
A complex set of enzymes used to curdle milk for cheese making.
Retinol (Vitamin A)
A highly popular anti-aging ingredient in skincare and an essential vitamin added to fortified foods.
Royal Jelly
A gelatinous secretion produced by honey bees to feed queen bees.
Silk Amino Acids
Protein particles extracted from raw silk, highly prized in high-end cosmetics and hair care for their moisture-retaining properties.
Snail Mucin
A viscous secretion heavily popularized by Korean skincare (K-Beauty) for its hydrating and healing properties.
Frequently asked about animal product
Are all animal product ingredients vegan?
No — none of the 16 animal product ingredients we've indexed are confirmed vegan. 15 are animal-derived and 1 depend on the source.
Which animal product ingredients should vegans avoid?
The most common non-vegan animal product ingredients are Albumen, Ambergris, Anchovies. See the list below for the full breakdown and vegan alternatives for each.
What are vegan alternatives to animal product ingredients?
Popular plant-based replacements include Hyaluronic acid, Aquafaba, Flax egg, Synthetic ambroxan. Each non-vegan entry below lists specific alternatives suited to its function.
How do I spot animal product ingredients on a food label?
Look for the substance name or its E-number. Common animal product E-numbers include E441. When in doubt, check the manufacturer's vegan certification or contact them directly.
Why are some animal product ingredients listed as "check label"?
1 animal product ingredient we've indexed can be derived from either plant or animal sources depending on the manufacturer. The vegan status only becomes clear when you check the brand or look for vegan certification.