Is Methylcellulose / Cologel (E461) Halal?

MUIS lists E461 (Methylcellulose / Cologel) as halal. It is derived from plant material and its normal production involves no animal-derived ingredients. The status applies to the additive itself; the finished product still needs its other ingredients checked.

Methylcellulose is a semi-synthetic polymer prepared by methylating plant cellulose. It is used as a thickener, emulsifier and gelling agent, and notably forms gels on heating rather than cooling.

• plant-based meat substitutes (e.g. Beyond, Impossible)
• low-fat dressings
• diet shakes
• ice cream
• baked goods

• E461 on its own is not a reason to avoid a product.
• The finished product still needs its other ingredients checked — look for a halal certification logo (MUIS, JAKIM, MUI, HMC or similar) when in doubt.
• Halal status here follows the MUIS food additive listing; rulings can differ between certification bodies.

carboxymethylcellulose (E466), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (E464), xanthan gum (E415)

E461 (Methylcellulose/Cologel/Methocel) is halal for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Methylcellulose is a semi-synthetic polymer prepared by methylating plant cellulose.

Methylcellulose is a semi-synthetic polymer prepared by methylating plant cellulose. It is used as a thickener, emulsifier and gelling agent, and notably forms gels on heating rather than cooling.

E461 is commonly found in plant-based meat substitutes (e.g. Beyond, Impossible), low-fat dressings, diet shakes, ice cream, and baked goods.