E123
Amaranth/FD&C Red 2 (C.I. 16185)
Halal
Usage: Colouring
Synthetic purplish red colouring
Is Amaranth / FD&C Red 2 (E123) Halal?
Yes — E123 (Amaranth / FD&C Red 2) is listed as halal by MUIS.
Why is E123 halal?
MUIS lists E123 (Amaranth / FD&C Red 2) as halal. It is manufactured synthetically from non-animal raw materials. The status applies to the additive itself; the finished product still needs its other ingredients checked.
About Amaranth / FD&C Red 2
Amaranth is a synthetic dark purplish-red azo dye produced from petroleum derivatives. Its use is heavily restricted globally due to historical concerns about carcinogenicity.
Commonly Found In
- caviar
- aperitifs
- fruit pie fillings
- fortified wine
Source & Origin
SyntheticColouringVeganVegetarian
How to check on the label
- E123 on its own is not a reason to avoid a product.
- The finished product still needs its other ingredients checked — look for a halal certification logo (MUIS, JAKIM, MUI, HMC or similar) when in doubt.
- Halal status here follows the MUIS food additive listing; rulings can differ between certification bodies.
Alternatives
Frequently asked questions
Is Amaranth / FD&C Red 2 (E123) halal or haram?
E123 (Amaranth/FD&C Red 2 (C.I. 16185)) is halal for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Amaranth is a synthetic dark purplish-red azo dye produced from petroleum derivatives.
What is E123?
Amaranth is a synthetic dark purplish-red azo dye produced from petroleum derivatives. Its use is heavily restricted globally due to historical concerns about carcinogenicity.
Where is E123 commonly found?
E123 is commonly found in caviar, aperitifs, fruit pie fillings, and fortified wine.
Related colours
Halal status source: MUIS Food Additive Listing ·
Information on this page is for general reference only. Halal-status data is sourced from MUIS. For current regulatory status, allergen warnings, or dietary advice, please consult your local food safety authority or a qualified professional.