What it is and where it comes from
E472a is E471 (mono- and diglycerides) joined with acetic acid, the acid in vinegar. The acetic acid is no problem. The question is the E471 inside it. The fatty acids can come from plant oils such as palm, soy, sunflower or rapeseed, or from animal fat, including pork fat. Most made today is from plants, but the label rarely says which.
Where you find it
Coatings on fruit and nuts, whipped toppings, cake mixes and sausage casings.
What to look for on the label
Look for a halal logo, a vegan label, or a note such as "of vegetable origin" next to the E-number. If the label says nothing, ask the maker: many companies answer by email within days.
This is a guide, not a fatwa. Recipes change, so check the label, look for halal certification, and ask your local imam where scholars differ.