What is E526?
E526 is Calcium hydroxide, a food additive used as an acidity regulator. Mineral (slaked lime).
Also written as: INS 526, E-526, E 526. 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.
Is E526 vegetarian or vegan?
Yes. E526 (Calcium hydroxide) is normally made from plant, mineral, microbial or synthetic sources, so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Why we classify it this way
Halal Mineral (slaked lime).
Basis: No concern found. Made from plants, minerals, fermentation or synthesis, or from a permitted animal product. Nothing in normal production raises a pork, alcohol, insect or slaughter question.
No external reference is listed for this record yet.
Classification audited 3 November 2026. It has not been reviewed by a scholar. How classifications work · Suggest a correction
Frequently asked questions
Is E526 halal?
E526 (Calcium hydroxide) is halal. Mineral (slaked lime).
What is E526 made from?
Mineral salt.
What is E526 used for?
E526 is used as an acidity regulator, typically in soft drinks, sweets, jams, sauces and processed foods.
What should I do if a product contains E526?
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Is E526 vegetarian or vegan?
Yes. E526 (Calcium hydroxide) is normally made from plant, mineral, microbial or synthetic sources, so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.