What it is and where it comes from
E153 is a black colour made by charring plant material, such as wood, cellulose or coconut shells, at a high heat. EU rules define it as carbon from vegetable material, so it is not bone char.
Where you find it
Black liquorice, black sweets and icing, charcoal crackers and bread, and the black coating on some cheeses.
What to look for on the label
Nothing to check for halal in products made for the EU or UK. Black colour from bone char is not E153.
This is a guide, not a fatwa. Recipes change, so check the label, look for halal certification, and ask your local imam where scholars differ.