Lanolin
A safe but non-vegan sheep derivative.
- Category
- Glazing agents
- Vegan
- No
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
A natural wax secreted by the sebaceous glands of wool-bearing animals like sheep.
How it is used in food
A wax-like grease from sheep's wool used as a glazing agent and, industrially, as the principal raw material for producing vitamin D3 used in fortified foods and supplements.
Commonly found in- Chewing gum base
- Vitamin D3 production
Health and safety
Safe for consumption and heavily used in cosmetics and Vitamin D3 supplements. It is strictly non-vegan. Not explicitly listed as an EU E-number food additive.
Lanolin has a long history of safe use in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, with allergy being rare and mainly a skin-contact issue. It is not currently authorised as a food additive in the EU, where its role is mostly as a vitamin D precursor.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Not approved | Not on the EU authorised list of food additives (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | Authorised for food use by the FDA (often GRAS for standard additives). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E913
Worth knowing
Most vitamin D3 sold worldwide starts as lanolin: a cholesterol-like compound extracted from wool grease is irradiated with UV light, mimicking what sunlight does in human skin.
Conclusion
A safe but non-vegan sheep derivative.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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