Which E numbers are haram? A comprehensive guide for Muslim consumers

October 26, 2025 •

2 min read

According to some Islamic dietary standards, only a short list of E numbers is definitively prohibited, but many others are deemed questionable due to their potential origin. Navigating the complex world of food additives is a common concern for Muslims striving to adhere to halal dietary laws. Understanding which E numbers are haram is crucial for making informed choices about the foods and beverages we consume daily.

Quick Summary

A guide for Muslim consumers on E numbers, detailing those definitively haram and others considered doubtful (mushbooh) based on their animal or alcohol-based origins. Offers practical advice for checking ingredients.

Key Points

Cochineal and Shellac are Haram: E120 (Cochineal) and E904 (Shellac) are strictly haram as they are derived from insects.
Gelatin is Haram unless Certified Halal: E441 (Gelatin) is haram unless explicitly certified as coming from a halal animal source.
Many Emulsifiers are Doubtful (Mushbooh): Additives like E470-E483 are mushbooh, meaning their source could be animal or plant-based, and require verification.
Glycerol's Status Depends on Origin: E422 (Glycerol) is only haram if derived from pork or non-halal animal sources; plant-based versions are permissible.
Look for Halal Certification: The most reliable way to ensure an additive is permissible is to choose products with a recognized halal certification logo.
Practice Caution with Unverified Ingredients: When in doubt about a specific E number, it is safest to avoid the product unless the manufacturer can confirm a halal source.

Understanding the E-Number System

E numbers are codes for food additives approved for use in the EU and recognized globally. They are classified by function, but for Muslims, the source is key. Some E numbers are always haram, while others are 'mushbooh' (doubtful) as their source could be halal or haram.

Categorically Haram E Numbers

Certain E numbers are strictly haram due to their derivation from non-halal animal products or insects. E120 (Cochineal) comes from crushed cochineal insects and is considered haram. E441 (Gelatine) is sourced from animal bones/hides, and is haram unless from a halal-certified source. E904 (Shellac) is a resin from the lac insect, considered haram. For a more comprehensive list of potentially haram additives, refer to {Link: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/Syndey.Bangladeshi/posts/24628232183477982/}.

Mushbooh E Numbers Requiring Verification

Many E numbers are mushbooh, meaning their halal status depends on the manufacturer's specific source (plant or animal). Examples include E422 (Glycerol/Glycerine), which can be plant-based or from animal fat (including pork), and E470-E483 (Emulsifiers), which can come from animal or vegetable fats. Checking the source is essential for these doubtful additives. For a detailed list of mushbooh additives, see {Link: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/Syndey.Bangladeshi/posts/24628232183477982/}.

Comparison of Haram vs. Mushbooh E-Numbers


Feature	Haram E-Numbers	Mushbooh (Doubtful) E-Numbers
Source	Always from forbidden animals or insects (e.g., pork, cochineal).	Can be from either halal (plant) or haram (animal) sources.
Verification	Not required, as the source is known to be haram.	Absolutely necessary; requires checking the manufacturer's source.
Examples	E120 (Cochineal), E441 (Gelatine from animal), E904 (Shellac).	E322 (Lecithin), E471 (Mono- and di-glycerides), E422 (Glycerol).
Consumer Action	Avoid completely.	Contact the manufacturer or look for halal certification.

How to Check if an E Number is Haram

To navigate food labels, Muslims should:

Look for Halal Certification: The most reliable method.
Contact the Manufacturer: For mushbooh E numbers without certification.
Use Halal Databases and Apps: As supplementary resources.
Adopt a Precautionary Approach: Avoid if the source is uncertain.

The Role of Chemical Transformation

Some scholars believe a complete chemical change ('istihala') can alter a haram substance's status, like alcohol becoming vinegar. However, this is a complex area with varying interpretations, especially for substances like gelatin. Consulting with religious scholars or certification bodies is recommended for definitive guidance.

Conclusion

While E120, E441 (unless certified), and E904 are consistently haram, many E numbers are mushbooh and require verification of their source. Prioritizing products with halal certification is the best approach. By being informed and cautious, Muslims can adhere to their dietary principles. More information on E-Codes is available at {Link: International Halal Certification https://international-halal.com/ecodes/}.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, E120, also known as cochineal or carminic acid, is consistently considered haram by many Islamic scholars because it is derived from the crushed bodies of the cochineal insect.

You can determine if E441 is halal by checking for a reputable halal certification on the product packaging. Without a certification, assume it is haram, as it is often derived from non-halal animal bones and hides, including pork.

E471 is considered mushbooh (doubtful) because it can be sourced from either vegetable fats (halal) or animal fats (haram), including pork. It is essential to contact the manufacturer or check for halal certification to know the source.

E422 is safe if derived from a plant-based source. However, it is haram if sourced from pork or other non-halal meat. Always verify the source with the manufacturer or look for a halal certification to be sure.

No, it is not always safe to assume a 'vegetable' source for ambiguous E numbers. Some countries do not require explicit labeling, so seeking products with formal halal certification is the safest approach.

E1510, or ethanol, is mushbooh. Its status depends on the concentration and source. While minute amounts resulting from natural fermentation might be overlooked, its use as a deliberate solvent makes its permissibility questionable.

'Mushbooh' means 'doubtful' or 'suspicious'. It refers to E numbers whose origins are not clear from the code alone and could potentially be derived from either halal or haram sources, requiring further investigation.