E123
food colorsAmaranth
What should I do with this product?
Safe to buy. This additive is permissible under Islamic dietary law.
See which foods use it →Avoid this code. Check halal alternatives or scan a substitute product.
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About E123
Color. It is dry form petroleum base. It is Halal if use as a powder dye. Liquid dye is Halal only if only Halal solvents are used.. Halal if used as 100% dry color. If used as liquid color, the solvent has to be Halal
Verification Required
This additive's halal status depends on its source. Check the product label for a halal certification mark, or contact the manufacturer directly.
What is E123 made from?
- synthetic azo dye (petroleum-derived)
Scholarly Notes
Synthetic dye - halal in dry powder form. Liquid form requires halal solvent. Banned in the USA since 1976. Rare in modern food products.
Regulatory Status by Country
Banned
- ✕ United States — banned by the FDA in 1976 due to cancer concerns; not permitted in any food products
Restricted
- ○ Russia and some CIS countries — restricted or banned in certain food categories
Foods that commonly contain E123
Always check the ingredient label on the specific product - manufacturers may change formulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is E123 (Amaranth) halal?
E123 (Amaranth) is classified as Mushbooh (Questionable). Source-dependent and requires verification. This additive may be derived from either halal (plant/synthetic) or haraam (animal) sources. Always check the product label or contact the manufacturer to verify the source.
What is E123 used for?
E123 is used as a dark red/purple food coloring in food products.
What foods contain E123?
E123 (Amaranth) is commonly found in: caviar, fish roe, some alcoholic drinks, certain sweets.
What is E123 made from?
E123 can be derived from the following sources: synthetic azo dye (petroleum-derived).
What are the other names for E123?
E123 may appear on food labels as: Amaranth, CI 16185, Food Red 9, FD&C Red No. 2.
food colors — 51 E-codes: 20 Halal, 2 Haraam, 29 Mushbooh
Related E-Codes in food colors
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