INS 966
surface coating agents, gases, sweetenersLactitol
Mushbooh (Questionable)
Is INS 966 (Lactitol) 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 966 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 966 on packaging from:
In the EU and UK, the same additive appears as E966. The ingredient, halal status, and sourcing considerations are identical — only the labelling system differs.
EU / UK equivalent: E966
INS 966 and E966 refer to the same food additive — Lactitol. If you are checking a product purchased in the UK or Europe, look for E966 on the label instead.
See full E966 halal guide →About INS 966
A sugar alcohol, Halal if obtained from Halal whey or lactose. If animal rennet is used to make whey and lactose then lactitol is not Halal.
⚠️ Verification Required
The halal status of INS 966 depends on its source. Always check for halal certification on the product packaging or contact the manufacturer directly.
Sources / Derived From
- hydrogenation of lactose (milk sugar - dairy)
Foods that commonly contain INS 966
Frequently Asked Questions
Is INS 966 (Lactitol) halal?
INS 966 (Lactitol) 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 966 used for?
INS 966 is used as a sweetener - sugar alcohol with mild sweetness in food products.
What is the difference between INS 966 and E966?
INS 966 and E966 are the same additive — Lactitol. INS numbers are used on food labels in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and GCC countries. The E-number system (E966) is used in EU and UK markets. The halal status is identical regardless of which label system is used.
What foods contain INS 966?
INS 966 (Lactitol) is commonly found in: sugar-free confectionery, dietary foods, laxative formulations.
What is INS 966 made from?
INS 966 can be derived from: hydrogenation of lactose (milk sugar - dairy).
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