INS 249
preservativesPotassium Nitrate
Halal
Is INS 249 (Potassium Nitrate) 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 249 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 249 on packaging from:
In the EU and UK, the same additive appears as E249. The ingredient, halal status, and sourcing considerations are identical — only the labelling system differs.
EU / UK equivalent: E249
INS 249 and E249 refer to the same food additive — Potassium Nitrate. If you are checking a product purchased in the UK or Europe, look for E249 on the label instead.
See full E249 halal guide →About INS 249
Chemical preservative
Sources / Derived From
- synthetic mineral salt
Foods that commonly contain INS 249
Frequently Asked Questions
Is INS 249 (Potassium Nitrate) halal?
INS 249 (Potassium Nitrate) is classified as Halal. Generally accepted as halal. Typically derived from plant or synthetic sources with no prohibited ingredients.
What is INS 249 used for?
INS 249 is used as a preservative and curing agent - prevents botulism in cured meats in food products.
What is the difference between INS 249 and E249?
INS 249 and E249 are the same additive — Potassium Nitrate. INS numbers are used on food labels in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and GCC countries. The E-number system (E249) is used in EU and UK markets. The halal status is identical regardless of which label system is used.
What foods contain INS 249?
INS 249 (Potassium Nitrate) is commonly found in: cured meats, bacon, ham, hot dogs, salami.
What is INS 249 made from?
INS 249 can be derived from: synthetic mineral salt.
Stay informed
Get halal alerts for new additives
We update the database regularly. Subscribe to stay informed.