So it’s Monday once more. Well, actually it is still Sunday while I’m writing this thanks to the joy of scheduled posting. Monday is a bank holiday here in the UK, so I’m going to PLAY instead of WORK, hooray!

This week’s Mystery Ingredient Monday is brought to you by:

Lactic Acid

If you’ve ever done [...]]]> Greetings fellow travellers,

So it’s Monday once more. Well, actually it is still Sunday while I’m writing this thanks to the joy of scheduled posting. Monday is a bank holiday here in the UK, so I’m going to PLAY instead of WORK, hooray!

This week’s Mystery Ingredient Monday is brought to you by:

Lactic Acid

If you’ve ever done a toning class, or leg lifts until you “feel the burn”, you will have encountered one form of lactic acid. It is when the glucose in the body is being used, which is why it is so desirable for slimmers. It is produced in muscles, and in this form comes under the category of animal. In the EU, it is also know as E270.

Commonly found in: all manner of processed foods. It also occurs naturally in fermented foods such as saurkraut and soured milk products.

What is it? It is an acid produced in the fermentation process. Whereas the name would suggest that it is a dairy product, in most commercial processes, bacteria are used to ferment carbohydrates from nondairy sources such as potatoes. In this case, lactic acid is clearly vegetable.

Why do manufacturers use it? As a preservative and for flavour.

Alternatives? Check the ingredients to see if it is animal or vegetable derived, although you may not find them particularly helpful in this case! If you are in doubt as to whether the product is suitable for vegans, contact the manufacturer. In the UK, the Animal Free Shopper is an invaluable resource, or contact your local vegan society for more information.

Back with more mystery ingredients next week,

~ Quirky Vegan