Natural flavours and flavourings

Is natural flavouring halal?

Depends on the source

Depends on the source. Natural flavourings can come from plants, but also from meat, dairy or fish, and they may be carried in alcohol. The label usually does not say.

Depends on the source means it can be made from plants, microbes or minerals, or from animals, including pigs. From plants, microbes or a halal-slaughtered animal it is halal; from pigs it is not. The label often does not say which, so look for a halal logo, a vegan label or a note on the source, or ask the maker.

What it is and where it comes from

A "natural flavouring" is made from natural raw materials: fruit, spices, herbs, but also meat, chicken fat, dairy or fish. It is often dissolved in alcohol or glycerin. Meat and savoury flavours are the most likely to be animal based.

Where you find it

Almost every processed food: crisps, sauces, sweets, drinks, ready meals and snacks.

What to look for on the label

A halal logo or a vegan label settles it. For savoury products, check whether a meat flavouring is named. For sweet products the main question is alcohol: see alcohol in flavouring.

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.

Related

All ingredients and E-numbers

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