Animal Products You Didn't Know You Were Using

In our daily lives, we come into contact with various products that we may not realize are derived from animals. From everyday items to luxury goods, many products are made using animal-derived materials, sometimes leading to ethical concerns and environmental impacts. In this article, we will dive into five surprising animal products that you may not have been aware of, shedding light on their origins and their presence in our daily lives. 

1. Gelatin

Gelatin is a widely used ingredient in a variety of foods, medications, and cosmetics. It is a protein derived from collagen, a connective tissue found in the bones, skin, and tendons of animals, primarily cows and pigs. Gelatin serves as a gelling agent, thickener, and stabilizer, providing a smooth texture and structure to products such as marshmallows, gummy candies, gelatin desserts, and even certain cosmetics. Despite its ubiquity, the source of gelatin is often overlooked, making it an unexpected animal product that many people consume without realizing its origin.

2. Carmine

Carmine, also known as cochineal extract or carmine red, is a bright red dye commonly used in the food and cosmetic industries. It is derived from crushed female cochineal insects, small scale insects that feed on cacti. The insects' bodies are harvested and dried, and their color-rich bodies are then ground into a fine powder to produce carmine. This natural dye is used to impart red and pink hues to a wide range of products, including fruit juices, candy, yogurt, and cosmetics. The use of carmine as a colorant can be surprising for those who are unaware of its insect-derived origin.

3. Lanolin

Lanolin, also known as wool wax or wool grease, is a waxy substance produced by the sebaceous glands of sheep. It is commonly extracted from sheep's wool during the shearing process. Lanolin has excellent emollient properties and is used in various skincare and cosmetic products, such as lotions, creams, lip balms, and moisturizers. It helps to moisturize and protect the skin, making it a sought-after ingredient in the beauty industry. Despite its widespread use, many consumers may not realize that lanolin is derived from sheep and plays a significant role in their skincare routines.

4. Shellac: The Natural Coating 

Shellac, a resinous substance derived from the secretions of lac bugs, is used as a natural coating and glaze in various consumer goods. It can be found in food products like fruits, candies, and pharmaceuticals, as well as in furniture finishes and wood coatings. While shellac is considered safe for consumption, its sourcing from insects raises ethical questions. The production of shellac involves collecting the secretions of lac bugs, a process known as "sticklac." The sticky substance is scraped from the trees where the bugs reside and then processed into shellac flakes. These flakes are dissolved in alcohol to create the shellac coating used in various applications. For individuals who follow a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, the use of shellac may conflict with their ethical beliefs. Thankfully, there are alternatives to shellac coatings, such as plant-based waxes and synthetic resins, that offer similar functionalities without the use of insect-derived ingredients.

5.  Isinglass: The Clarifying Agent

Isinglass, a substance derived from the swim bladders of fish, is used as a fining agent in the production of alcoholic beverages. It helps clarify and stabilize the liquid, especially in the brewing of beers and wines. Despite its common use, many consumers are unaware of its presence in their favorite drinks. Traditionally, isinglass is obtained by processing the dried swim bladders of certain fish species. It is added to beer or wine during the production process, where it binds with suspended particles and aids in their removal. However, this practice poses challenges for individuals who follow a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, as they may prefer to avoid animal-derived products. Fortunately, alternative fining agents such as bentonite clay, activated charcoal, or vegan-friendly bioengineered solutions are gaining popularity in the brewing and winemaking industries. By choosing beverages that use these alternative fining agents, consumers can enjoy their favorite drinks without compromising their ethical principles.