INS 236
Preservative - Produced commercially by heating carbon monoxide and sodium hydroxide under pressure and decomposing the resulting sodium formate with sulphuric acidFormic Acid
Halal
Is INS 236 (Formic Acid) 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 236 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 236 on packaging from:
In the EU and UK, the same additive appears as E236. The ingredient, halal status, and sourcing considerations are identical — only the labelling system differs.
EU / UK equivalent: E236
INS 236 and E236 refer to the same food additive — Formic Acid. If you are checking a product purchased in the UK or Europe, look for E236 on the label instead.
See full E236 halal guide →About INS 236
Mushbooh
Sources / Derived From
- synthetic (from CO and NaOH)
- naturally in ant venom
Foods that commonly contain INS 236
Frequently Asked Questions
Is INS 236 (Formic Acid) halal?
INS 236 (Formic Acid) is classified as Halal. Generally accepted as halal. Typically derived from plant or synthetic sources with no prohibited ingredients.
What is INS 236 used for?
INS 236 is used as a preservative and flavoring in food products.
What is the difference between INS 236 and E236?
INS 236 and E236 are the same additive — Formic Acid. INS numbers are used on food labels in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and GCC countries. The E-number system (E236) is used in EU and UK markets. The halal status is identical regardless of which label system is used.
What foods contain INS 236?
INS 236 (Formic Acid) is commonly found in: some beverages, vinegar production aid.
What is INS 236 made from?
INS 236 can be derived from: synthetic (from CO and NaOH), naturally in ant venom.
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