Taurine
What is Taurine?
Taurine is an amino sulfonic acid, meaning it contains a sulfur atom. It is found naturally in the human body and in animal-based foods. Industrially, it is typically synthesised chemically.
Is Taurine vegan?
Taurine is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Taurine gluten-free?
It does not contain gluten.
Is Taurine a major allergen?
Taurine is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Taurine used for?
Taurine is often added to energy drinks and other beverages as a functional ingredient, contributing to its perceived energising properties.
Is Taurine safe?
Taurine is authorised as a food additive in the UK and the EU.
Why it's used
Taurine is often added to energy drinks and other beverages as a functional ingredient, contributing to its perceived energising properties. It is also found in some infant formulas and pet foods.
Health notes
Taurine is authorised as a food additive in the UK and the EU. EFSA has evaluated taurine and its safety has been established. While naturally occurring in the body, its role in energy drinks is a subject of ongoing discussion, with some research exploring its effects on exercise performance and recovery. However, robust evidence for significant health benefits from taurine supplementation in healthy individuals is limited.
Allergen info
Taurine is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It does not contain gluten.
Foods that contain Taurine
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