Yes — Halal

INS 402

thickeners, gelling agents, phosphates, humectants, emulsifiers

Potassium Alginate

Also known as: Potassium Alginate E402 (EU/UK)

Status

Halal

Function

Thickener and gelling agent

Halal

Is INS 402 (Potassium Alginate) 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.

See which foods use it →

Where is INS 402 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 402 on packaging from:

AustraliaNew ZealandMalaysiaSingaporeIndonesiaIndiaSaudi ArabiaUAEGCC countries

In the EU and UK, the same additive appears as E402. The ingredient, halal status, and sourcing considerations are identical — only the labelling system differs.

EU / UK equivalent: E402

INS 402 and E402 refer to the same food additive — Potassium Alginate. If you are checking a product purchased in the UK or Europe, look for E402 on the label instead.

See full E402 halal guide →

About INS 402

Emulsifiers and stabilizers - alginates

Sources / Derived From

brown seaweed (plant/algae)

Foods that commonly contain INS 402

ice creamsaucesbaked goods

Frequently Asked Questions

Is INS 402 (Potassium Alginate) halal?

INS 402 (Potassium Alginate) is classified as Halal. Generally accepted as halal. Typically derived from plant or synthetic sources with no prohibited ingredients.

What is INS 402 used for?

INS 402 is used as a thickener and gelling agent in food products.

What is the difference between INS 402 and E402?

INS 402 and E402 are the same additive — Potassium Alginate. INS numbers are used on food labels in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and GCC countries. The E-number system (E402) is used in EU and UK markets. The halal status is identical regardless of which label system is used.

What foods contain INS 402?

INS 402 (Potassium Alginate) is commonly found in: ice cream, sauces, baked goods.

What is INS 402 made from?

INS 402 can be derived from: brown seaweed (plant/algae).

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