Turn over almost any packet in a UK supermarket and you'll see a string of codes like E471 or E120. It can feel overwhelming. There are hundreds of E-numbers, but most are synthetic, mineral or plant-based and are halal. Only a small group needs your attention.
Usually haram
- E441 Gelatine — mostly from pigs in Europe, unless the pack says fish or halal beef.
- E120 Carmine — made from insects; most UK scholars avoid it, some permit it.
- E1510 Ethanol — added alcohol.
Doubtful: depends on the source
These can be made from plant oils or from animal fat, including pork. The label usually does not say which.
- E471 and the E472 family — mono- and diglycerides, found in bread, cakes and ice cream.
- E481, E482 — stearoyl lactylates in bread.
- E422 Glycerol — fine if "vegetable glycerine".
- E570, E572 — stearic acid and magnesium stearate, common in tablets.
- E631, E635 — flavour enhancers that can come from meat or fish.
- E920 L-cysteine — can come from feathers, hair or pig bristles.
- E542 Bone phosphate.
Three shortcuts that clear most doubts
- A vegan label rules out every animal source (but not alcohol).
- A vegetarian label rules out meat, gelatine and animal rennet — but not alcohol or carmine in every case.
- A recognised halal logo means a certifier has checked the sources for you.
Not sure? Paste the ingredient list into our checker and it will flag each one.
