Is 0016500579793 Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I analyze ingredient lists to determine sourcing, and the label for 0016500579793 leaves no room for doubt regarding its vegan status. The primary issue lies in the capsule material itself. Gelatin is a protein obtained by boiling skin, tendons, ligaments, and/or bones with water. It is usually obtained from cows or pigs. In the context of a vitamin tablet, it is used to create the outer shell that holds the powdered ingredients together. Because it is an animal byproduct, it is strictly non-vegan.

Beyond the gelatin, we must look at the synthetic additives. The product utilizes FD&C Yellow #5 (Tartrazine) and FD&C Blue #2 Aluminum Lake. While these artificial colors are synthesized chemically and are generally considered vegan in terms of source material, they are often a point of contention for ethical vegans due to animal testing requirements. However, the definitive dealbreaker here remains the gelatin. Additionally, the inclusion of Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) is a synthetic polymer used as a binder, which is chemically vegan but highly processed.

It is also worth noting the form of certain vitamins used. For example, the product lists Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3). While Vitamin D3 can be derived from lanolin (sheep's wool), making it technically vegetarian but not strictly vegan, the presence of gelatin makes this distinction moot for this specific product. The combination of animal-derived capsule material and synthetic fillers confirms that 0016500579793 is not suitable for a vegan lifestyle.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, 0016500579793 is designed as a dietary supplement rather than a food source, meaning it contributes negligible calories, fat, or sugar to your daily intake. The primary function of this product is to deliver micronutrients like Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Zinc Oxide, and Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) in concentrated doses. Because it lacks caloric density, it does not impact weight management plans. However, the presence of Maltodextrin is worth noting. Maltodextrin is a highly processed starch used as a filler. While it is technically a carbohydrate, the amount per serving is usually too low to impact blood sugar significantly for most people, though those with severe insulin sensitivity should be aware of it.

The product also contains Titanium Dioxide, used for color, and Silicon Dioxide, an anti-caking agent. These are inert minerals that pass through the body without being absorbed. In terms of 'healthiness,' this product is effective for filling nutritional gaps, but it is not a 'health food' due to the inclusion of artificial dyes like FD&C Yellow #5, which some studies suggest can cause hypersensitivity reactions in sensitive individuals. It fits well within diet limits for those simply looking to boost vitamin intake without adding calories.