INS 201
preservativesSodium Sorbate
Halal
Is INS 201 (Sodium Sorbate) halal?
Generally accepted as halal. Typically derived from plant or synthetic sources with no prohibited ingredients.
What to do
Safe to buy. This additive is permissible under Islamic dietary law.
Where is INS 201 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 201 on packaging from:
In the EU and UK, the same additive appears as E201. The ingredient, halal status, and sourcing considerations are identical — only the labelling system differs.
EU / UK equivalent: E201
INS 201 and E201 refer to the same food additive — Sodium Sorbate. If you are checking a product purchased in the UK or Europe, look for E201 on the label instead.
See full E201 halal guide →About INS 201
Chemical preservative
Sources / Derived From
- synthetic
Foods that commonly contain INS 201
Frequently Asked Questions
Is INS 201 (Sodium Sorbate) halal?
INS 201 (Sodium Sorbate) is classified as Halal. Generally accepted as halal. Typically derived from plant or synthetic sources with no prohibited ingredients.
What is INS 201 used for?
INS 201 is used as a preservative - sodium salt of sorbic acid in food products.
What is the difference between INS 201 and E201?
INS 201 and E201 are the same additive — Sodium Sorbate. INS numbers are used on food labels in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and GCC countries. The E-number system (E201) is used in EU and UK markets. The halal status is identical regardless of which label system is used.
What foods contain INS 201?
INS 201 (Sodium Sorbate) is commonly found in: bakery products, cheese, fruit juices.
What is INS 201 made from?
INS 201 can be derived from: synthetic.
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