INS 920
surface coating agents, gases, sweetenersL-Cysteine Hydrochloride
Mushbooh (Questionable)
Is INS 920 (L-Cysteine Hydrochloride) 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 920 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 920 on packaging from:
In the EU and UK, the same additive appears as E920. The ingredient, halal status, and sourcing considerations are identical — only the labelling system differs.
EU / UK equivalent: E920
INS 920 and E920 refer to the same food additive — L-Cysteine Hydrochloride. If you are checking a product purchased in the UK or Europe, look for E920 on the label instead.
See full E920 halal guide →About INS 920
Miscellaneous - compounds used to treat flour l-cysteine from human hair is haram. L-cysteine from chicken feathers is not Halal. L-cysteine from fermentation and synthetic source is Halal.
⚠️ Verification Required
The halal status of INS 920 depends on its source. Always check for halal certification on the product packaging or contact the manufacturer directly.
Sources / Derived From
- human hair (haraam)
- duck/chicken feathers (haraam - not zabiha)
- synthetic (halal)
- bacterial fermentation (halal)
Foods that commonly contain INS 920
Frequently Asked Questions
Is INS 920 (L-Cysteine Hydrochloride) halal?
INS 920 (L-Cysteine Hydrochloride) 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 920 used for?
INS 920 is used as a flour treatment agent - improves dough extensibility in food products.
What is the difference between INS 920 and E920?
INS 920 and E920 are the same additive — L-Cysteine Hydrochloride. INS numbers are used on food labels in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and GCC countries. The E-number system (E920) is used in EU and UK markets. The halal status is identical regardless of which label system is used.
What foods contain INS 920?
INS 920 (L-Cysteine Hydrochloride) is commonly found in: commercial bread, burger buns, pizza dough, flour tortillas, crackers.
What is INS 920 made from?
INS 920 can be derived from: human hair (haraam), duck/chicken feathers (haraam - not zabiha), synthetic (halal), bacterial fermentation (halal).
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