Is Calcium Carbonate / Chalk (E170) Halal?

MUIS lists E170 (Calcium Carbonate / Chalk) as doubtful (mashbooh), which means the source cannot be confirmed from the E-number alone — not that it is haram. Some grades are processed with aids or carriers of unspecified origin, 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.

Calcium carbonate is a white powder used as both a colourant and a calcium source. It can be obtained from naturally occurring chalk, limestone or marble, or historically from ground animal bones.

• chewing gum
• baking powder
• breakfast cereals
• calcium supplements
• toothpaste
• white-coated 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.

titanium dioxide (E171), rice flour, cornstarch

E170 (Calcium Carbonate/Chalk (C.I. 77220)) is doubtful for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Calcium carbonate is a white powder used as both a colourant and a calcium source.

Calcium carbonate is a white powder used as both a colourant and a calcium source. It can be obtained from naturally occurring chalk, limestone or marble, or historically from ground animal bones.

E170 is commonly found in chewing gum, baking powder, breakfast cereals, calcium supplements, toothpaste, and white-coated confectionery.