INS 131
food colorsPatent Blue V
Mushbooh (Questionable)
Is INS 131 (Patent Blue V) 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 131 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 131 on packaging from:
In the EU and UK, the same additive appears as E131. The ingredient, halal status, and sourcing considerations are identical — only the labelling system differs.
EU / UK equivalent: E131
INS 131 and E131 refer to the same food additive — Patent Blue V. If you are checking a product purchased in the UK or Europe, look for E131 on the label instead.
See full E131 halal guide →About INS 131
Color. It is a chemical dye Halal only in its dry form. Liquid form is Halal only if 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 131 depends on its source. Always check for halal certification on the product packaging or contact the manufacturer directly.
Sources / Derived From
- synthetic coal tar dye
Foods that commonly contain INS 131
Frequently Asked Questions
Is INS 131 (Patent Blue V) halal?
INS 131 (Patent Blue V) 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 131 used for?
INS 131 is used as a blue food coloring in food products.
What is the difference between INS 131 and E131?
INS 131 and E131 are the same additive — Patent Blue V. INS numbers are used on food labels in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and GCC countries. The E-number system (E131) is used in EU and UK markets. The halal status is identical regardless of which label system is used.
What foods contain INS 131?
INS 131 (Patent Blue V) is commonly found in: scotch eggs, some sweets, soft drinks, cosmetics.
What is INS 131 made from?
INS 131 can be derived from: synthetic coal tar dye.
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