INS 238
Preservative - Calcium salt of formic acid (E236)Calcium Formate
Halal
Is INS 238 (Calcium Formate) 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 238 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 238 on packaging from:
In the EU and UK, the same additive appears as E238. The ingredient, halal status, and sourcing considerations are identical — only the labelling system differs.
EU / UK equivalent: E238
INS 238 and E238 refer to the same food additive — Calcium Formate. If you are checking a product purchased in the UK or Europe, look for E238 on the label instead.
See full E238 halal guide →About INS 238
Mushbooh
Sources / Derived From
- synthetic
Foods that commonly contain INS 238
Frequently Asked Questions
Is INS 238 (Calcium Formate) halal?
INS 238 (Calcium Formate) is classified as Halal. Generally accepted as halal. Typically derived from plant or synthetic sources with no prohibited ingredients.
What is INS 238 used for?
INS 238 is used as a preservative - calcium salt of formic acid in food products.
What is the difference between INS 238 and E238?
INS 238 and E238 are the same additive — Calcium Formate. INS numbers are used on food labels in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and GCC countries. The E-number system (E238) is used in EU and UK markets. The halal status is identical regardless of which label system is used.
What foods contain INS 238?
INS 238 (Calcium Formate) is commonly found in: bakery products.
What is INS 238 made from?
INS 238 can be derived from: synthetic.
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