Names to look for on labels
- hydrolysed elastin
What to do
Look for a halal logo, a "vegan" label, or a stated plant source on the pack. If none of these are present, you can contact the manufacturer and ask for the source.
More about elastin
Elastin is a stretchy protein found in connective tissue, skin and ligaments. It is extracted from cattle, pigs or fish and used in skin creams and supplements as hydrolysed elastin.
The label rarely states the animal. Look for a marine or plant alternative if you need a clear halal source.
Is elastin vegetarian or vegan?
No. Elastin comes from animals, so it is not vegetarian or vegan.
Why we classify it this way
Doubtful Depends on the animal source. Also found in skin creams.
Basis: Source or process not stated. It can be made from sources that change the ruling (for example pigs, an animal that was not slaughtered correctly, or alcohol), and the label does not say which.
References
- Resolution No. 210 (6/22): Transmutation and Dilution of Additives in Food and Medication, International Islamic Fiqh Academy (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation), 22 March 2015. Defines istihalah as a complete change into a different substance and says a partial change does not make a defiled substance pure. Adopts a 1995 IOMS fatwa that allows a slight amount of alcohol as a solvent for colours and preservatives, and alcohol on the skin, but says foods containing wine are not permitted even in a small ratio. Pig fat and pig rennet are prohibited; rennet from a correctly slaughtered animal is permitted; most participants hold rennet from an animal that was not slaughtered impure while some disagree; rennet made by genetic engineering is permitted. Pig heparin only under necessity. Gelatin was referred for further study with no ruling.
Classification audited 3 November 2026. It has not been reviewed by a scholar. How classifications work · Suggest a correction
Frequently asked questions
Is elastin halal?
Elastin is doubtful (mushbooh). Depends on the animal source. Also found in skin creams.
Where does elastin come from?
Animal connective tissue (often pig or cattle) or fish.
Is elastin vegetarian or vegan?
No. Elastin comes from animals, so it is not vegetarian or vegan.