Is Calcium Glutamate (E623) Halal?

MUIS lists E623 (Calcium Glutamate) as doubtful (mashbooh), which means the source cannot be confirmed from the E-number alone — not that it is haram. It is produced by fermentation, and the fermentation medium, nutrients and processing aids vary by manufacturer and can include animal-derived ingredients. The additive itself is not haram; its status depends on how the producer makes it. The reliable check is a recognised halal certification logo on the finished product, or a manufacturer statement of the source.

Calcium glutamate is the calcium salt of glutamic acid, used as a flavour enhancer with mild calcium fortification.

• low-sodium savoury seasonings
• salt substitutes

• 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.

MSG (E621), monopotassium glutamate (E622), yeast extract

E623 (Calcium Glutamate) is doubtful for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Calcium glutamate is the calcium salt of glutamic acid, used as a flavour enhancer with mild calcium fortification.

Calcium glutamate is the calcium salt of glutamic acid, used as a flavour enhancer with mild calcium fortification.

E623 is commonly found in low-sodium savoury seasonings and salt substitutes.