Yes — Halal

INS 403

thickeners, gelling agents, phosphates, humectants, emulsifiers

Ammonium Alginate

Also known as: Ammonium Alginate E403 (EU/UK)
Status
Halal
Function
Thickener and gelling agent

Halal

Is INS 403 (Ammonium 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.

Where is INS 403 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 403 on packaging from:

AustraliaNew ZealandMalaysiaSingaporeIndonesiaIndiaSaudi ArabiaUAEGCC countries

In the EU and UK, the same additive appears as E403. The ingredient, halal status, and sourcing considerations are identical — only the labelling system differs.

EU / UK equivalent: E403

INS 403 and E403 refer to the same food additive — Ammonium Alginate. If you are checking a product purchased in the UK or Europe, look for E403 on the label instead.

See full E403 halal guide →

About INS 403

Emulsifiers and stabilizers - alginates

Sources / Derived From

  • brown seaweed (plant/algae)

Foods that commonly contain INS 403

ice creampuddings

Frequently Asked Questions

Is INS 403 (Ammonium Alginate) halal?

INS 403 (Ammonium Alginate) is classified as Halal. Generally accepted as halal. Typically derived from plant or synthetic sources with no prohibited ingredients.

What is INS 403 used for?

INS 403 is used as a thickener and gelling agent in food products.

What is the difference between INS 403 and E403?

INS 403 and E403 are the same additive — Ammonium Alginate. INS numbers are used on food labels in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and GCC countries. The E-number system (E403) is used in EU and UK markets. The halal status is identical regardless of which label system is used.

What foods contain INS 403?

INS 403 (Ammonium Alginate) is commonly found in: ice cream, puddings.

What is INS 403 made from?

INS 403 can be derived from: brown seaweed (plant/algae).

Stay informed

Get halal alerts for new additives

We update the database regularly. Subscribe to stay informed.