INS 123
food colorsAmaranth
Mushbooh (Questionable)
Is INS 123 (Amaranth) halal?
Source-dependent. May be derived from halal (plant/synthetic) or haram (animal) sources. Verify with the manufacturer or look for halal certification.
What to do
Don't assume. Ask the brand for halal certification or source information.
Where is INS 123 used?
INS (International Numbering System) codes are maintained by the Codex Alimentarius Commission and used on food labels in many countries outside the EU. You will commonly see INS 123 on packaging from:
In the EU and UK, the same additive appears as E123. The ingredient, halal status, and sourcing considerations are identical — only the labelling system differs.
EU / UK equivalent: E123
INS 123 and E123 refer to the same food additive — Amaranth. If you are checking a product purchased in the UK or Europe, look for E123 on the label instead.
See full E123 halal guide →About INS 123
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
The halal status of INS 123 depends on its source. Always check for halal certification on the product packaging or contact the manufacturer directly.
Sources / Derived From
- synthetic azo dye (petroleum-derived)
Foods that commonly contain INS 123
Frequently Asked Questions
Is INS 123 (Amaranth) halal?
INS 123 (Amaranth) is classified as Mushbooh (Questionable). Source-dependent. May be derived from halal (plant/synthetic) or haram (animal) sources. Verify with the manufacturer or look for halal certification.
What is INS 123 used for?
INS 123 is used as a dark red/purple food coloring in food products.
What is the difference between INS 123 and E123?
INS 123 and E123 are the same additive — Amaranth. INS numbers are used on food labels in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and GCC countries. The E-number system (E123) is used in EU and UK markets. The halal status is identical regardless of which label system is used.
What foods contain INS 123?
INS 123 (Amaranth) is commonly found in: caviar, fish roe, some alcoholic drinks, certain sweets.
What is INS 123 made from?
INS 123 can be derived from: synthetic azo dye (petroleum-derived).
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