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Is E162 halal or haram?

Beetroot red / Betanin · Color (red)

HalalLast reviewed: April 2026

E162 (Beetroot red / Betanin) is generally classified as halal. Plant-derived (beetroot).

What is E162?

E162, listed on labels as Beetroot red / Betanin, is a colouring agent that gives food a specific hue. You'll most often find it in packaged and processed foods.

Is E162 halal? The verdict

Good news — you can treat E162 as halal. Plant-derived (beetroot). 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 E162 on a label

If you see E162 (or "Beetroot red / Betanin") 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

  • Beetroot red
  • Betanin
  • E162

Bottom line

E162 is halal. Safe to consume as far as this additive is concerned.

Stop guessing in the aisle

Halal Food AI flags E162 and every other suspect or not-halal additive automatically — just scan the barcode or snap the ingredient list. Plain-language verdicts, 25+ languages.