What is E132?
E132 is Indigo carmine (indigotine), a colour. Despite the name, it is not made from cochineal insects.
Also written as: INS 132, E-132, E 132. INS is the international numbering system used outside Europe, including on labels in Asia, Australia and the Middle East.
What to do
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Frequently asked questions
Is E132 halal?
E132 (Indigo carmine (indigotine)) is halal. Despite the name, it is not made from cochineal insects.
What is E132 made from?
Synthetic dye.
What is E132 used for?
E132 is used as a colour, typically in sweets, soft drinks, desserts, sauces and snacks.
What should I do if a product contains E132?
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Related E-numbers
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. How we decide · Suggest a correction