Last reviewed May 2026 · 1 min read
Is Magnesium Stearate vegan?
Also known as: Magnesium salt of fatty acids, E470b
E-number: E470b
Check the Label
Source can be plant or animal.
See all check label ingredients →
It depends — It is produced from stearic acid.
01 · The basics
What is Magnesium Stearate?
A magnesium salt of stearic acid used primarily as a lubricant in the production of tablets and capsules.
02 · The source
Where it comes from
It is produced from stearic acid. While most modern industrial stearic acid is vegetable-derived (from palm or soy), it can still be sourced from animal fats (tallow).
03 · Alternatives
Best vegan alternatives
Vegetable magnesium stearate
Check Price on AmazonAffiliate links — VegOmm may earn a commission from qualifying purchases.
Frequently asked
FAQ
Is the magnesium stearate in my vitamins vegan?
You must check for the words 'vegetable source' or a vegan logo. If not specified, the lubricant could be animal-derived.
Why is it used in pills?
It prevents the ingredients from sticking to the manufacturing machinery during the pressing of tablets.
Commonly found in
Products
Products containing Magnesium Stearate
- Is Tylenol Extra Strength Caplets vegan?Check Label · Medicine / Pain
- Is Centrum Multivitamins vegan?Non-Vegan · Medicine / Supplements
- Is Zyrtec (Tablets) vegan?Vegan · Medicine / Allergy
- Is Excedrin Extra Strength vegan?Vegan · Medicine / Pain
- Is Nature's Bounty Melatonin vegan?Check Label · Supplement / Vitamins
More in this category
Other emulsifier ingredients
E422 (Glycerol / Glycerin)
A sweet, syrupy liquid used as a humectant in foods and cosmetics.
E471 (Mono- and diglycerides)
A common emulsifier used in baked goods, ice cream, and margarine.
E481 (Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate)
An emulsifier used to improve the texture of baked goods.
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.
Calcium Carbonate
A common mineral used as a white food coloring, an anti-caking agent, and a calcium supplement.
What's next