← All E-code verdicts

Is E124 halal or haram?

Ponceau 4R · Color (red)

HalalLast reviewed: April 2026

E124 (Ponceau 4R) is generally classified as halal. Synthetic azo dye.

What is E124?

E124, listed on labels as Ponceau 4R, is a colouring agent that gives food a specific hue. You'll most often find it in packaged and processed foods.

Is E124 halal? The verdict

Good news — you can treat E124 as halal. Synthetic azo dye. The additive itself needs no special certification. Keep in mind the finished product can still contain other ingredients that aren't halal, so always read the full list.

How to check E124 on a label

If you see E124 (or "Ponceau 4R") in an ingredient list, no further checking is needed for this additive — focus your attention on meat, animal fats, gelatin and flavourings instead.

Other names & label terms to scan for

  • Ponceau 4R
  • E124

Bottom line

E124 is halal. Safe to consume as far as this additive is concerned.

Stop guessing in the aisle

Halal Food AI flags E124 and every other suspect or not-halal additive automatically — just scan the barcode or snap the ingredient list. Plain-language verdicts, 25+ languages.