Yes — Halal

INS 636

flavor enhancers

Maltol

Also known as: Maltol E636 (EU/UK)

Status

Halal

Function

Flavour enhancer - caramel/malt aroma intensifier

Halal

Is INS 636 (Maltol) 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 636 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 636 on packaging from:

AustraliaNew ZealandMalaysiaSingaporeIndonesiaIndiaSaudi ArabiaUAEGCC countries

In the EU and UK, the same additive appears as E636. The ingredient, halal status, and sourcing considerations are identical — only the labelling system differs.

EU / UK equivalent: E636

INS 636 and E636 refer to the same food additive — Maltol. If you are checking a product purchased in the UK or Europe, look for E636 on the label instead.

See full E636 halal guide →

About INS 636

Miscellaneous - flavour enhancers

Sources / Derived From

natural (in roasted malt, pine needles)
synthetic (from kojic acid)

Foods that commonly contain INS 636

baked goodsconfectionerybeveragessome processed foods

Frequently Asked Questions

Is INS 636 (Maltol) halal?

INS 636 (Maltol) is classified as Halal. Generally accepted as halal. Typically derived from plant or synthetic sources with no prohibited ingredients.

What is INS 636 used for?

INS 636 is used as a flavour enhancer - caramel/malt aroma intensifier in food products.

What is the difference between INS 636 and E636?

INS 636 and E636 are the same additive — Maltol. INS numbers are used on food labels in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and GCC countries. The E-number system (E636) is used in EU and UK markets. The halal status is identical regardless of which label system is used.

What foods contain INS 636?

INS 636 (Maltol) is commonly found in: baked goods, confectionery, beverages, some processed foods.

What is INS 636 made from?

INS 636 can be derived from: natural (in roasted malt, pine needles), synthetic (from kojic acid).

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