Last reviewed May 2026 · 1 min read
Is Calcium Carbonate vegan?
Also known as: Chalk, E170, Calcite
E-number: E170
Check the Label
Source can be plant or animal.
See all check label ingredients →
It depends — It can be mined directly from limestone rocks (vegan) OR derived from crushed oyster shells or eggshells (non-vegan).
01 · The basics
What is Calcium Carbonate?
A common mineral used as a white food coloring, an anti-caking agent, and a calcium supplement.
02 · The source
Where it comes from
It can be mined directly from limestone rocks (vegan) OR derived from crushed oyster shells or eggshells (non-vegan). You must verify the source.
03 · Alternatives
Best vegan alternatives
Plant-derived calcium
Check Price on AmazonMined calcium carbonate
Check Price on AmazonAffiliate links — VegOmm may earn a commission from qualifying purchases.
Frequently asked
FAQ
How do I know if the calcium carbonate in my plant milk is vegan?
Almost all commercially produced plant milks use mined limestone (vegan) for fortification, as it is cheaper and easier to source than oyster shells.
Is calcium carbonate the same as bone char?
No, bone char is made from animal bones and used to filter sugar. Calcium carbonate is a mineral salt.
Commonly found in
More in this category
Other coloring ingredients
Allura Red AC
A popular synthetic red food dye used to give foods and drinks a prominent red or pink color.
Tartrazine
A bright lemon-yellow synthetic food dye commonly used in processed foods, drinks, and medications.
Brilliant Blue FCF
A synthetic blue dye used in foods, cosmetics, and dietary supplements to achieve a vibrant blue hue.
Keep exploring
Related ingredients
E422 (Glycerol / Glycerin)
A sweet, syrupy liquid used as a humectant in foods and cosmetics.
E920 (L-Cysteine)
A dough conditioner used in commercial bread baking.
E471 (Mono- and diglycerides)
A common emulsifier used in baked goods, ice cream, and margarine.
What's next