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Is E406 halal or haram?

Agar · Gelling agent

HalalLast reviewed: April 2026

E406 (Agar) is generally classified as halal. Seaweed-derived; common halal substitute for gelatin.

What is E406?

E406, listed on labels as Agar, is a gelling agent that sets liquids into a gel. You'll most often find it in packaged and processed foods.

Is E406 halal? The verdict

Good news — you can treat E406 as halal. Seaweed-derived; common halal substitute for gelatin. 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 E406 on a label

If you see E406 (or "Agar") 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

  • Agar
  • E406

Bottom line

E406 is halal. Safe to consume as far as this additive is concerned.

Stop guessing in the aisle

Halal Food AI flags E406 and every other suspect or not-halal additive automatically — just scan the barcode or snap the ingredient list. Plain-language verdicts, 25+ languages.