Fining agent

A fining agent is a processing substance used to clarify a drink — wine, beer, cider or juice — by binding to haze-causing particles so they can be filtered out. Many traditional fining agents are animal-derived, including isinglass (from fish), gelatin, egg white and casein. Because they act during processing, they rarely appear on the label, which is why they matter for a vegan or vegetarian claim.

In depth

Fining removes proteins, tannins and other particles that would otherwise leave a drink cloudy. The agent binds to the particles and is filtered off, so little or none remains in the finished product — but its animal origin still affects whether the drink can carry a plant-based claim.

Common animal-derived fining agents include isinglass from fish swim bladders, gelatin, egg albumen and casein from milk. Plant and mineral alternatives — bentonite clay, pea protein, activated carbon — let a producer clarify a drink without an animal input.

Because a fining agent is used up in processing and often is not declared, it is a classic processing aid question. A vegan or vegetarian review asks the producer to name every fining agent and confirm its source through a supplier declaration.

Related marks

• VeganFood, beverage, supplements, cosmetics.
• VegetarianA first-class mark — never vegan's footnote.

Related terms

• Processing aid — A processing aid is a substance used during manufacturing to achieve a technical effect but not intended to remain, as a functional ingredient, in the finished food.
• Animal-derived ingredient — An animal-derived ingredient is one obtained wholly or partly from an animal, including insects and animal by-products.
• Supplier declaration — A supplier declaration is a written statement from a supplier confirming facts about an ingredient, such as its source, composition or processing.

Frequently asked questions