Is Polyoxyethylene (40) Stearate vegan?
Polyoxyethylene (40) Stearate
A polyoxyethylene ester of stearic acid produced by the reaction of stearic acid with 40 moles of ethylene oxide. Used as an emulsifier in food and cosmetic applications; the stearic acid component may be of animal or plant origin.
Why unconfirmed?
Polyoxyethylene (40) Stearate can be either derived from animal, or non-animal sources. The ingredient name itself is identical either way, so the label alone can’t tell you which. Only a supplier declaration can.
| Also known as | macrogol ester 2000, Macrogol stearate 2000, PEG-40 stearate, Polyethylene glycol (40) monostearate, Polyethylene glycol 2000 monostearate |
|---|---|
| INCI name | Polyoxyethylene (40) Stearate |
| E number | E431 |
| INS number | 431 |
| CAS number | 9004-99-3 |
| CosIng ID | 76904 |
| Last verified | 16 April 2026 |
An ingredient is considered vegan if it contains no animal-derived components at any point in its production.
Selling a product with this ingredient? A supplier declaration can confirm the source. See how certification works.
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.
