INS 153
food colorsCarbon Black / Vegetable Carbon (Charcoal)
Mushbooh (Questionable)
Is INS 153 (Carbon Black) 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 153 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 153 on packaging from:
In the EU and UK, the same additive appears as E153. The ingredient, halal status, and sourcing considerations are identical — only the labelling system differs.
EU / UK equivalent: E153
INS 153 and E153 refer to the same food additive — Carbon Black / Vegetable Carbon (Charcoal). If you are checking a product purchased in the UK or Europe, look for E153 on the label instead.
See full E153 halal guide →About INS 153
Color obtained from coal tar. 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 153 depends on its source. Always check for halal certification on the product packaging or contact the manufacturer directly.
Sources / Derived From
- charred plant material (vegetable carbon)
- charred animal bones (bone char - haraam)
Foods that commonly contain INS 153
Frequently Asked Questions
Is INS 153 (Carbon Black / Vegetable Carbon (Charcoal)) halal?
INS 153 (Carbon Black / Vegetable Carbon (Charcoal)) 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 153 used for?
INS 153 is used as a black food coloring in food products.
What is the difference between INS 153 and E153?
INS 153 and E153 are the same additive — Carbon Black / Vegetable Carbon (Charcoal). INS numbers are used on food labels in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and GCC countries. The E-number system (E153) is used in EU and UK markets. The halal status is identical regardless of which label system is used.
What foods contain INS 153?
INS 153 (Carbon Black / Vegetable Carbon (Charcoal)) is commonly found in: liquorice, activated charcoal ice cream, some confectionery.
What is INS 153 made from?
INS 153 can be derived from: charred plant material (vegetable carbon), charred animal bones (bone char - haraam).
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