Is Alpha- / Beta- (E160a) Halal?

Beta-carotene itself is plant-derived or made synthetically, but commercial preparations are often supplied as beadlets coated with gelatine, or dissolved in oils of unspecified origin, to make the pigment stable. That carrier is why MUIS lists E160a as doubtful. Look for a halal logo or a manufacturer statement that a plant-based carrier is used.

Carotenes are orange-yellow carotenoid pigments naturally found in carrots, palm oil and many vegetables. Food-grade carotene can be extracted from plant sources or produced synthetically by chemical synthesis or fermentation.

• margarine
• butter
• fruit juices
• soft drinks
• cheese
• confectionery

• Look for a recognised halal certification logo (MUIS, JAKIM, MUI, HMC or similar) on the packaging — certified products have had the source of this additive verified.
• Check whether the label states the origin, for example 'vegetable origin', 'plant-based' or 'soy'.
• If there is no certification and the origin is not stated, contact the manufacturer or choose a product with a halal alternative.

paprika extract (E160c), annatto (E160b), lycopene (E160d)

E160a (Alpha-/Beta-/Gamma-Carotene (C.I. 75130)) is doubtful for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Carotenes are orange-yellow carotenoid pigments naturally found in carrots, palm oil and many vegetables.

Carotenes are orange-yellow carotenoid pigments naturally found in carrots, palm oil and many vegetables. Food-grade carotene can be extracted from plant sources or produced synthetically by chemical synthesis or fermentation.

E160a is commonly found in margarine, butter, fruit juices, soft drinks, cheese, and confectionery.