Is Fumaric Acid (E297) Halal?

MUIS lists E297 (Fumaric Acid) 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.

Fumaric acid is a dicarboxylic acid produced commercially by chemical isomerisation of maleic acid, which is itself made from butane or benzene oxidation; fungal fermentation (e.g. Rhizopus) is a known but minor alternative. It is used as an acidity regulator with about 1.5 times the sourness of citric acid.

• powdered fruit drinks
• gelatin desserts
• sourdough bread
• wine
• bakery fillings

• 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.

citric acid (E330), malic acid (E296), tartaric acid (E334)

E297 (Fumaric Acid) is doubtful for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Fumaric acid is a dicarboxylic acid produced commercially by chemical isomerisation of maleic acid, which is itself made from butane or benzene oxidation; fungal fermentation (e.

Fumaric acid is a dicarboxylic acid produced commercially by chemical isomerisation of maleic acid, which is itself made from butane or benzene oxidation; fungal fermentation (e.g. Rhizopus) is a known but minor alternative. It is used as an acidity regulator with about 1.5 times the sourness of citric acid.

E297 is commonly found in powdered fruit drinks, gelatin desserts, sourdough bread, wine, and bakery fillings.