Is Tween 20 (E432) Halal?

MUIS lists E432 (Polyoxyethylene Sorbitan Monolaurate / Polysorbate 20) 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.

Polysorbate 20 (Tween 20) is a non-ionic emulsifier made from sorbitol, lauric acid and ethylene oxide. The MUIS doubtful classification reflects that the fatty acid can be sourced from either animal or vegetable fats.

• ice cream
• salad dressings
• vitamin oil emulsions
• pickles

• 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.

polysorbate 80 (E433), polysorbate 60 (E435), mono- and diglycerides (E471)

E432 (Polyoxyethylene (20) Sorbitan Monolaurate/Polysorbate 20/Tween 20) is doubtful for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Polysorbate 20 (Tween 20) is a non-ionic emulsifier made from sorbitol, lauric acid and ethylene oxide.

Polysorbate 20 (Tween 20) is a non-ionic emulsifier made from sorbitol, lauric acid and ethylene oxide. The MUIS doubtful classification reflects that the fatty acid can be sourced from either animal or vegetable fats.

E432 is commonly found in ice cream, salad dressings, vitamin oil emulsions, and pickles.