Colour

Is Carmine (cochineal) Halal?

Haram

Carmine (cochineal) is haram. Most UK scholars and certifiers avoid it; some scholars permit it. Follows your insect setting.

TypeColour
Comes fromCrushed insects.
Names on labels14

Names to look for on labels

  • carmine
  • cochineal
  • carminic acid
  • natural red 4
  • ci 75470
  • crimson lake

On labels from other countries

  • carmin
  • cochenille
  • karmin
  • cochinilla
  • cocciniglia
  • kırmızı karmin
  • كارمين
  • кармин

What to do

Avoid products containing this unless the pack clearly states a halal source or carries a recognised halal certification.

Check a whole product

Scan a barcode, snap the label or paste the ingredients.

Frequently asked questions

Is carmine (cochineal) halal?

Carmine (cochineal) is haram. Most UK scholars and certifiers avoid it; some scholars permit it. Follows your insect setting.

Where does carmine (cochineal) come from?

Crushed insects.

Last reviewed 2026-10-06. How we decide · Suggest a correction