Lactic acid is an organic acid that forms when certain foods go through the process of fermentation. It's often found in pickled foods, fermented soy products, salami, yogurt, and more.

Where is lactic acid derived from?

Lactic acid is a byproduct of the bacterial fermentation of sugar. Lactic acid is often vegan, but this is not always the case, as its sources include dairy products and meat. Lactic acid occurs naturally in some foods, but manufacturers may add it to certain foods to extend their shelf life.

Is lactic acid derived from milk?

What is lactic acid? Many people assume that lactic acid comes from animal products because the first word in the term sounds similar to lactose, a sugar naturally found in cow's milk and dairy products. ... However, lactic acid is not milk, nor does it contain milk.