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Is Chitin vegan?

Chitin

Not Vegan

A long-chain polysaccharide that forms the structural component of the exoskeletons of insects, crustaceans (such as shrimp and crabs), and the cell walls of fungi. It is used in cosmetics and biomaterials for its film-forming, moisturising, and wound-healing properties.

Also known as Crustacean chitin, Poly-N-acetyl-D-glucosamine
CAS number 1398-61-4
EC number 215-744-3
Last reviewed 16 April 2026

Classifications are made to the best of our knowledge based on available scientific and regulatory sources. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of every entry, errors in the sources we draw from can always occur. This tool also cannot account for cross-contamination, which depends entirely on individual suppliers and producers. If you believe a classification is incorrect, you can report an issue.