Is E470 Dairy Free?

E470 is a group of compounds known as fatty acid salts, which are used as emulsifiers and stabilizers in various food products. It includes salts of stearic, palmitic, and oleic acids, which can be derived from both plant and animal origins. This makes it a versatile ingredient in the food industry, aiding in texture and shelf-life improvements of products such as baked goods, margarines, and confectioneries. However, the source of E470 is not always specified on packaging, posing a challenge for those following a vegan diet who wish to avoid animal derivatives.