Is Glycerin Vegan?
It depends on its source. Glycerin can be found in animal fats or plant-based sources. Animal-based glycerin, usually made from cow fat (tallow), is not considered vegan.
On the other hand, glycerin found in plant sources such as soy, coconut, or palm oil is vegan-friendly. To determine whether a product contains vegan glycerin, consumers should carefully read labels, look for vegan certifications, and contact the product directly for clarification if needed.
If in doubt, it is better to avoid the product if its vegan status cannot be confirmed.
What is Glycerin?
Glycerin, also called glycerol, is a commonly used ingredient in many different products because of its beneficial properties. Glycerin is often found in beauty products such as soaps, serums, and face or body lotions because it provides long-lasting moisture to the skin.
However, Glycerin is often used in food products because of its naturally sweet taste. Sometimes, you can also find Glycerin listed as an ingredient in household products, or even medical products because of its healing properties.
What Is Glycerin Made Of?
Glycerin can be found in two forms: either from fat or from carbohydrates. Generally, Glycerin is found in fats, and like most ingredients, this liquid or gelatin-like substance is present in both plants and animals.
And like many ingredients, glycerin can be created synthetically, an option that some manufacturers may choose when there is a strong need to ensure the purity of the ingredient. Therefore, plants and animals are the most common sources of Glycerin.
Animal Glycerin vs Vegetable Glycerin
Animal-based Glycerin is made from animal (cow) fat, also known as tallow. Glycerin is extracted from the tallow and mixed with water and heated until the substance thickens. From there, it is filtered of excess water and impurities and is ready to be used as an ingredient.
On the other hand, plant-based Glycerin is usually extracted from plants such as soybean, coconut, and palm oil. (Read our sustainable beauty guide to learn more about Helpless Kitty’s stance on palm oil). It is extracted from these plants using heat and pressure to prepare it for use in products.
Is Glycerin the same as Gelatin?
Gelatin is a flexible and non-sticky ingredient derived from collagen, a protein found mainly in animals. And although Glycerin and Gelatin may seem similar because of their names and consistency, they are not the same ingredient.
Is Vegan Glycerin Safe to Eat?
According to the FDA, Glycerin “generally considered safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice.” This includes both vegan and non-vegan Glycerin. And while Glycerin is not an ingredient that provides a lot of nutritional value, it is considered non-toxic to consume.
What Are the Possible Benefits of Vegan Glycerin?
Besides being a versatile ingredient that is used in many different ways, vegan Glycerin is also packed with tons of amazing benefits.
Benefits of Vegan Glycerin in Skincare
When used in skin care, Glycerin works very effectively as a humectant. Humectants are compounds that draw water from the air and skin. This allows the skin to retain moisture throughout the day.
Glycerin also has healing properties, and can help improve vulnerable skin barriers. If you experience skin concerns such as excessive dryness, redness, and other signs of a compromised skin barrier, try searching for cruelty-free and vegan skincare products that contain Glycerin.
Benefits of Vegan Glycerin in food
As mentioned earlier, Glycerin does not provide much nutritional value when used in food. Instead, it is used to enhance the sweetness of the product made from within. That said, vegan Glycerin has gained popularity as a sugar substitute, and is especially beneficial for those diagnosed with diabetes.
However, it is important to note that if consumed in large quantities, you may gain unwanted weight due to its water retention properties.
How do you know if Glycerin is Vegan
Determining whether Glycerin in your products is vegan or not is not an easy task. But fear not, as we’ve created a simple checklist of steps you can follow to help determine if the Glycerin in your products is truly vegan.
Step 1: Read the Labels and Packaging
First, start by reading the ingredient label. Some ingredient labels will provide additional information about the exact source of their ingredients. Research products known for their commitment to vegan and cruelty-free products, as these companies may use plant-based Glycerin in their formulations.
Vegan certifications, such as Vegan.org, are also a good way to verify that a product is vegan. Many brands will include these logos on their packaging, providing assurance that the product you are using is 100% vegan.
Step 2: Research and Contact the Brand Directly
If the product packaging or labels do not clearly state whether Glycerin is vegetable or not, your next step is to reach for the product directly. Start by visiting the brand’s website and product page, as well as their FAQ section, to learn more. If the information is not provided there, it is best to contact them through their website or social media to ask them.
Step 3: When in Doubt, Don’t Use It
Sometimes despite your best efforts, it can be difficult to confirm that the Glycerin in your product is vegetable. At Cruelty-Free Kitty, we strive to share as many helpful vegan products with you as possible. That’s why all the products included in our monthly Better Beauty Subscription Box are 100% vegan and cruelty-free.
That being said, it is ultimately up to you to decide if 100% vegan formulas are right for you. If you are looking to switch to veganism or are already vegan, we suggest not buying a product if you cannot confirm its vegan status.
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