Taurine

Amino Acid

Taurine at a glance

Category: Amino Acid
Also called: 2-aminoethanesulfonic acid
Commonly found in: Energy drinks, Dietary supplements, Fortified infant formula
Diets reviewed: 26 diets

What is Taurine?

Taurine is a type of amino sulfonic acid, often referred to as an amino acid, which is a building block of protein. It is naturally occurring in the body and is found in high concentrations in the brain, retina, heart, and blood cells called platelets. Taurine is naturally present in animal-based foods such as fish, seafood, meat, poultry, and dairy products. However, it is also produced synthetically and is commonly added to energy drinks and dietary supplements. Taurine plays a role in various physiological functions, including bile salt formation, eye health, heart function, and the development and function of skeletal muscle, the central nervous system, and the cardiovascular system.

Also known as:

2-aminoethanesulfonic acid

Diet Compatibility

VeganCaution

Taurine is only found in animal-sourced foods like fish, seafood, meat, poultry, and dairy products. However, it can be synthetic as well.

PescatarianCaution

Taurine is only found in animal-sourced foods like fish, seafood, meat, poultry, and dairy products. However, it can be synthetic as well.

VegetarianCaution

Taurine is only found in animal-sourced foods like fish, seafood, meat, poultry, and dairy products. However, it can be synthetic as well.

Alpha-Gal FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.

Barley FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.

Corn FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Corn Free diet.

Dairy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.

Egg FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.

Fish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.

Garlic FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.

GERD FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.

Gluten FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.

Lactose FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.

Low FODMAPSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fodmap diet.

Lupin FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.

Milk FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.

Nightshade FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.

Oat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.

Onion FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.

Peanut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.

Rye FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.

Sesame FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.

Shellfish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.

Soy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.

Tree Nut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.

Wheat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.

Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Why People Avoid Taurine

Vegans and vegetarians might avoid taurine because it is naturally found in animal products. Although taurine can be synthesized, those following a strict vegan lifestyle may choose to avoid it unless its source is confirmed to be synthetic or plant-based. Additionally, some individuals might be cautious about taurine due to its common presence in energy drinks, which are often linked to negative health effects when consumed in excess.

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.

Foods That Commonly Contain Taurine

Energy drinks Dietary supplements Fortified infant formula

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Spoonful reviews ingredients

Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.

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