INS 621
flavor enhancersMonosodium Glutamate/MSG
Mushbooh (Questionable)
Is INS 621 (Monosodium Glutamate) halal?
Source-dependent. May be derived from halal (plant/synthetic) or haram (animal) sources. Verify with the manufacturer or look for halal certification.
What to do
Don't assume. Ask the brand for halal certification or source information.
Where is INS 621 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 621 on packaging from:
In the EU and UK, the same additive appears as E621. The ingredient, halal status, and sourcing considerations are identical — only the labelling system differs.
EU / UK equivalent: E621
INS 621 and E621 refer to the same food additive — Monosodium Glutamate/MSG. If you are checking a product purchased in the UK or Europe, look for E621 on the label instead.
See full E621 halal guide →About INS 621
Miscellaneous - flavour enhancers. Suitable for vegetarian label on the package indicates the source of monosodium glutamate is from vegetable protein or it has to be under Halal or kosher certification. In USA/canada it is kosher certified and meet the Halal requirements. Monosodium glutamate can also be obtained from yeast. But if yeast is grown on pork media then it is haram. It happened in indonesia few years back when monosodium glutamate is produced using pork fat media to grow yeast by ajinomonto indonesia. As it was reported on our website.
⚠️ Verification Required
The halal status of INS 621 depends on its source. Always check for halal certification on the product packaging or contact the manufacturer directly.
Sources / Derived From
- bacterial fermentation of sugar cane or corn (plant)
- yeast grown on pork media (haraam - historical cases)
Foods that commonly contain INS 621
Frequently Asked Questions
Is INS 621 (Monosodium Glutamate/MSG) halal?
INS 621 (Monosodium Glutamate/MSG) is classified as Mushbooh (Questionable). Source-dependent. May be derived from halal (plant/synthetic) or haram (animal) sources. Verify with the manufacturer or look for halal certification.
What is INS 621 used for?
INS 621 is used as a flavour enhancer - intensifies savoury (umami) taste in food products.
What is the difference between INS 621 and E621?
INS 621 and E621 are the same additive — Monosodium Glutamate/MSG. INS numbers are used on food labels in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and GCC countries. The E-number system (E621) is used in EU and UK markets. The halal status is identical regardless of which label system is used.
What foods contain INS 621?
INS 621 (Monosodium Glutamate/MSG) is commonly found in: crisps/chips, instant noodles, Chinese takeaway food, frozen meals, seasoning mixes, soups, sauces, fast food, ready meals.
What is INS 621 made from?
INS 621 can be derived from: bacterial fermentation of sugar cane or corn (plant), yeast grown on pork media (haraam - historical cases).
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