Is Ammonium Ferric Citrate (E381) Halal?

MUIS lists E381 (Ammonium Ferric Citrate) 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.

Ammonium ferric citrate is an iron-fortification compound made from citric acid, ammonia and iron. It is used to add iron to foods and supplements.

• iron-fortified flour
• breakfast cereals
• infant formula
• iron 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.

ferrous gluconate (E579), ferrous lactate (E585), elemental iron

E381 (Ammonium Ferric Citrate) is doubtful for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Ammonium ferric citrate is an iron-fortification compound made from citric acid, ammonia and iron.

Ammonium ferric citrate is an iron-fortification compound made from citric acid, ammonia and iron. It is used to add iron to foods and supplements.

E381 is commonly found in iron-fortified flour, breakfast cereals, infant formula, and iron supplements.