Is Polysorbate 80 vegan?
Polysorbate 80
A polyoxyethylene sorbitan ester produced by the ethoxylation of sorbitan monooleate, widely used as an emulsifier and solubiliser in cosmetics, food, and pharmaceuticals. The oleic acid component may be sourced from animal or plant fats.
Why unconfirmed?
Polysorbate 80 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 | PEG-20 sorbitan monooleate, PEG-20 sorbitan oleate, Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate, Polysorbate 81, Sorbitan Mono-9-Octadecenoate Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) Derivs, Sorbitan monooleate ethoxylate, Tween 80 |
|---|---|
| INCI name | Polysorbate 80 |
| E number | E433 |
| INS number | 433 |
| CAS number | 9005-65-6 |
| CosIng ID | 57799 |
| Last verified | 14 May 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.
