Is Lycopene (E160d) Halal?

MUIS lists E160d (Lycopene) as doubtful (mashbooh), which means the source cannot be confirmed from the E-number alone — not that it is haram. Although the base material is plant-derived, some production routes use animal-derived processing aids or carriers, and the E-number does not identify the producer. The reliable check is a recognised halal certification logo on the finished product, or a manufacturer statement of the source.

Lycopene is the bright red carotenoid pigment that gives tomatoes, watermelon and pink grapefruit their colour. Commercial lycopene is typically extracted from tomatoes or produced via microbial fermentation.

• sauces
• soft drinks
• processed foods
• dietary supplements

• 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.

beet red (E162), paprika extract (E160c), cochineal (E120)

E160d (Lycopene (C.I. 75125)) is doubtful for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Lycopene is the bright red carotenoid pigment that gives tomatoes, watermelon and pink grapefruit their colour.

Lycopene is the bright red carotenoid pigment that gives tomatoes, watermelon and pink grapefruit their colour. Commercial lycopene is typically extracted from tomatoes or produced via microbial fermentation.

E160d is commonly found in sauces, soft drinks, processed foods, and dietary supplements.