If you have looked closely at the ingredient list on processed food packages, you may have come across “Disodium Inosinate,” also known as E631. While this flavor enhancer is generally considered safe, many Muslims have raised concerns about its halal status.
In this blog post, I will explore whether E631 is halal or haram and what factors you should consider when making food choices as a Muslim. So, let’s dive into the details and learn more about this controversial additive.
About E631 & Its Source and Safety
E631 is a food additive and a flavor enhancer also known as disodium inosinate. It is the disodium salt of inosinic acid and is commonly found in many processed foods, including instant noodles, potato chips, and other snacks.
E631 can be derived from multiple sources, such as plants (found in seaweed, yeast, or mushrooms) or animals, typically produced from meat & fish, including pig fat. However, it may also be produced from tapioca starch without involving animal products in the production process.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has deemed it as generally recognized as safe (GRAS). It has received approval for use in food products in several countries, including the United States, the European Union, and Australia.
E631 Halal or Haram? Here’s the answer
E631 is generally considered Halal in the USA and Canada. Disodium Inosinate is a flavor enhancer made from nucleotides, which are organic molecules that play a crucial role in the body’s metabolism. It is derived through bacterial non-alcoholic fermentation, either directly from sugar or from sugarcane.
It is essential to note that Disodium Inosinate should not be confused with nucleotides obtained from Torula yeast. Torula yeast is grown on a medium that contains alcohol, and it may also be produced from sugar cane. These yeast-derived nucleotides are not considered Halal and unsuitable for Muslims, particularly infant baby formula.
It’s worth noting that E631 is commercially prepared from animal products because it is less expensive, and some brands may hide this information. Therefore, before consuming any products that contain Disodium Inosinate, it is better to ask for halal certification.
Final Thought
Therefore, Disodium Inosinate, which is derived from bacterial fermentation on sugar or sugarcane, is generally considered Halal in the USA and Canada. However, it is essential to verify the source of Disodium Inosinate before consuming it to ensure it is Halal-certified.
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