Last reviewed May 2026 · 1 min read
Is Myristic Acid vegan?
Also known as: Tetradecanoic acid
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Source can be plant or animal.
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It depends — It is named after the nutmeg (Myristica fragrans), but it is also found in palm oil, coconut oil, and animal fats like butter and fish oil.
01 · The basics
What is Myristic Acid?
A common saturated fatty acid used in soaps, cosmetics, and as a food flavoring agent.
02 · The source
Where it comes from
It is named after the nutmeg (Myristica fragrans), but it is also found in palm oil, coconut oil, and animal fats like butter and fish oil. Verification is needed.
03 · Alternatives
Best vegan alternatives
Nutmeg-derived or coconut-derived myristic acid
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Frequently asked
FAQ
Is myristic acid vegan?
It can be either plant-derived (coconut/palm) or animal-derived. Look for 'vegetable-derived' on the label or a vegan certification.
What does it do in soap?
It produces a very rich, thick lather, which is why it is so popular in shaving creams and foaming cleansers.
Commonly found in
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An emulsifier used to improve the texture of baked goods.
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