Last reviewed May 2026 · 1 min read

Is Buttermilk vegan?

Also known as: Cultured Buttermilk

Not Vegan

Derived from animals — avoid.

See all non-vegan ingredients →

In short

No — Both traditional and modern cultured buttermilk are derived from cow's milk.

01 · The basics

What is Buttermilk?

A dairy liquid, which is either the fluid left after churning butter or, more commonly, cultured milk with a characteristically sour taste. It's used extensively in baking for its tenderizing effects.

02 · The source

Where it comes from

Both traditional and modern cultured buttermilk are derived from cow's milk. As a product of the dairy industry, it is not considered vegan.

03 · Alternatives

Best vegan alternatives

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Frequently asked

FAQ

How can I make a vegan substitute for buttermilk?

You can easily make vegan buttermilk at home for recipes. Simply mix one cup of unsweetened plant-based milk (soy milk works best as it curdles well) with one tablespoon of an acid, such as lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, and let it stand for 5-10 minutes.

Is buttermilk powder vegan?

No, buttermilk powder is simply dehydrated liquid buttermilk. It remains a dairy product and is therefore not vegan.

Commonly found in

Pancakes and wafflesBiscuits and sconesSalad dressings (e.g., ranch)Fried chicken batterCornbreadIrish soda bread