Is Canthaxanthin (E161g) Halal?

MUIS lists E161g (Canthaxanthin) as doubtful (mashbooh), which means the source cannot be confirmed from the E-number alone — not that it is haram. Although it is made synthetically, 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.

Canthaxanthin is an orange-pink carotenoid pigment originally isolated from edible mushrooms and now produced largely by chemical synthesis. It is also widely used in poultry and fish feed to enhance the colour of egg yolks and salmon flesh.

• farmed salmon and trout feed
• poultry feed
• limited human food use

• 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.

astaxanthin, beta-carotene (E160a), paprika extract (E160c)

E161g (Canthaxanthin (C.I. 40850)) is doubtful for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Canthaxanthin is an orange-pink carotenoid pigment originally isolated from edible mushrooms and now produced largely by chemical synthesis.

Canthaxanthin is an orange-pink carotenoid pigment originally isolated from edible mushrooms and now produced largely by chemical synthesis. It is also widely used in poultry and fish feed to enhance the colour of egg yolks and salmon flesh.

E161g is commonly found in farmed salmon and trout feed, poultry feed, and limited human food use.