INS 212
preservativesPotassium Benzoate
Halal
Is INS 212 (Potassium Benzoate) 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 212 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 212 on packaging from:
In the EU and UK, the same additive appears as E212. The ingredient, halal status, and sourcing considerations are identical — only the labelling system differs.
EU / UK equivalent: E212
INS 212 and E212 refer to the same food additive — Potassium Benzoate. If you are checking a product purchased in the UK or Europe, look for E212 on the label instead.
See full E212 halal guide →About INS 212
Chemical preservative
Sources / Derived From
- synthetic
Foods that commonly contain INS 212
Frequently Asked Questions
Is INS 212 (Potassium Benzoate) halal?
INS 212 (Potassium Benzoate) is classified as Halal. Generally accepted as halal. Typically derived from plant or synthetic sources with no prohibited ingredients.
What is INS 212 used for?
INS 212 is used as a preservative - potassium salt of benzoic acid in food products.
What is the difference between INS 212 and E212?
INS 212 and E212 are the same additive — Potassium Benzoate. INS numbers are used on food labels in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and GCC countries. The E-number system (E212) is used in EU and UK markets. The halal status is identical regardless of which label system is used.
What foods contain INS 212?
INS 212 (Potassium Benzoate) is commonly found in: soft drinks, margarine, olives, pickles.
What is INS 212 made from?
INS 212 can be derived from: synthetic.
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