Is Cryptoxanthin (E161c) Halal?

MUIS lists E161c (Cryptoxanthin) as doubtful (mashbooh), which means the source cannot be confirmed from the E-number alone — not that it is haram. It can be made from plant-based or animal-derived materials, so the same E-number may be halal from one manufacturer and not from another. The reliable check is a recognised halal certification logo on the finished product, or a manufacturer statement of the source.

Cryptoxanthin is a yellow-orange xanthophyll pigment found in plants such as oranges and papaya, as well as in egg yolk and butter. It has provitamin A activity.

• limited food use
• research supplements
• fortified products

• 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.

beta-carotene (E160a), lutein (E161b), annatto (E160b)

E161c (Cryptoxanthin) is doubtful for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Cryptoxanthin is a yellow-orange xanthophyll pigment found in plants such as oranges and papaya, as well as in egg yolk and butter.

Cryptoxanthin is a yellow-orange xanthophyll pigment found in plants such as oranges and papaya, as well as in egg yolk and butter. It has provitamin A activity.

E161c is commonly found in limited food use, research supplements, and fortified products.