E160A
food colorsAlpha, Beta, Gamma
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.
See Alternatives below →Verified Halal Picks
Kervan Halal Gummy Stars 5lb
View →Ulker Turkish Extra Milk Chocolate 6-pack
View →SNAPDOWN Halal Beef Jerky Original BBQ 12-pack
View →Bebeto Watermelon Slices Gummies 2lb
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About E160A
Color - Carotene Carotene color is obtained from plant source but it is not available in 100% form because it is not soluble in water. Gelatin is added to help mix in liquid products. In USA fish Gelatin is used so it is Halal in USA but in UK they may not use fish Gelatin but may use Gelatin from pork or beef.. 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 E160A made from?
- plant (carrots, palm oil)
- synthetic
- fish gelatin (as carrier)
- pork/beef gelatin (as carrier)
Scholarly Notes
The carotene pigment itself is halal but it is often suspended in gelatin. In the USA fish gelatin is commonly used (halal). In the UK/EU pork or beef gelatin may be used - verification required.
Foods that commonly contain E160A
Food Category Guide
E160A is common in margarine — see the full halal guide →
Always check the ingredient label on the specific product - manufacturers may change formulations.
Halal Alternatives
These E-codes serve a similar function and are generally considered halal:
Shop halal-certified options on Amazon:
Bebeto Watermelon Slices Gummies 2lb
Natural colouring only — no beta-carotene gelatin carrier concerns
Kervan Halal Gummy Stars 5lb
Halal certified — no gelatin-based colour carriers
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is E160A (Alpha, Beta, Gamma) halal?
E160A (Alpha, Beta, Gamma) 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 E160A used for?
E160A is used as a orange/yellow food coloring and vitamin a precursor in food products.
What foods contain E160A?
E160A (Alpha, Beta, Gamma) is commonly found in: margarine, butter, cheese, yogurt, orange juice, breakfast cereals, infant formula.
What is E160A made from?
E160A can be derived from the following sources: plant (carrots, palm oil), synthetic, fish gelatin (as carrier), pork/beef gelatin (as carrier).
What are the other names for E160A?
E160A may appear on food labels as: Carotene, Beta-Carotene, Alpha-Carotene, Gamma-Carotene.
food colors — 51 E-codes: 20 Halal, 2 Haraam, 29 Mushbooh
Related E-Codes in food colors
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