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Is Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) Vegan?

An absolute guide to identifying vitamin d3 (cholecalciferol) on nutrition labels.

❌ NO, VITAMIN D3 (CHOLECALCIFEROL) IS NOT VEGAN.

The Quick Answer

Most commercial Vitamin D3 is synthesized from lanolin, which is extracted from sheep's wool.

Common Source: Sheep's wool (Lanolin).

What is Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)?

A vital nutrient often added to fortify foods and beverages. While D2 is always plant-based, D3 is almost always animal-derived unless stated otherwise.

Where is it usually found?

You can frequently find this ingredient hiding in:

  • Fortified orange juice
  • Fortified cereals
  • Some plant milks
  • Multivitamins

Vegan Alternatives to Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)

If you're avoiding vitamin d3 (cholecalciferol), look for these plant-based alternatives instead:

  • Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol)
  • Lichen-derived D3 (Explicitly vegan)

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