Is Ascorbyl Palmitate (E304) Halal?

MUIS lists E304 (Ascorbyl Palmitate) 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.

Ascorbyl palmitate is a fat-soluble ester of ascorbic acid and palmitic acid, used as an antioxidant in oils and fatty foods. The MUIS doubtful classification reflects palmitic acid's possible animal-fat origin.

• vegetable oils
• infant formula
• cereals
• vitamin 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.

ascorbic acid (E300), tocopherols (E306), BHA (E320)

E304 (Ascorbyl Palmitate) is doubtful for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Ascorbyl palmitate is a fat-soluble ester of ascorbic acid and palmitic acid, used as an antioxidant in oils and fatty foods.

Ascorbyl palmitate is a fat-soluble ester of ascorbic acid and palmitic acid, used as an antioxidant in oils and fatty foods. The MUIS doubtful classification reflects palmitic acid's possible animal-fat origin.

E304 is commonly found in vegetable oils, infant formula, cereals, and vitamin supplements.