food colors

E151 — Black PN

Black food coloring

Also known as: Black PN · CI 28440 · Food Black 1 · Brilliant Black BN

Permissible

Yes — Halal

Generally accepted as halal. This additive is typically derived from plant or synthetic sources and does not contain any prohibited ingredients according to Islamic dietary laws.

Function Black food coloring
Found in black/brown sauces, caviar substitutes & more
Source synthetic azo dye

School of Thought Breakdown

Hanafi

Permitted

Maliki

Permitted

Shafi'i

Permitted

Hanbali

Permitted

Synthetic dye - halal in dry powder form. Liquid form requires halal solvent. Not permitted in USA, Australia, Canada or Japan.

What to do with this product

Follow these steps in order — most products resolve at step 1 or 2

1

Safe to consume

E151 is permissible across all major schools of Islamic thought. No further verification is needed for this specific additive.

Permissible — no verification required
2

Still check the rest of the ingredients list

Other E-codes on the same label may have a different halal status. Use our database or scanner to verify each one.

Always verify the complete label

You're all clear for this additive

E151 is permissible. Focus your label check on the other E-codes in this product — some may have different statuses.

Scan the full label →
Background & Details

About E151

Color this is a synthetic color soluble in water. Halal if used as 100% dry color. If used as liquid color, the solvent has to be Halal

What is E151 made from?

  • synthetic azo dye

Foods that commonly contain E151

black/brown sauces caviar substitutes some confectionery liquorice

Always check the ingredient label on the specific product - manufacturers may change formulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is E151 (Black PN / Brilliant Black BN) halal?

E151 (Black PN / Brilliant Black BN) is classified as Halal. Generally accepted as halal. This additive is typically derived from plant or synthetic sources and does not contain any prohibited ingredients according to Islamic dietary laws.

What is E151 used for?

E151 is used as a black food coloring in food products.

What foods contain E151?

E151 (Black PN / Brilliant Black BN) is commonly found in: black/brown sauces, caviar substitutes, some confectionery, liquorice.

What is E151 made from?

E151 can be derived from the following sources: synthetic azo dye.

What are the other names for E151?

E151 may appear on food labels as: Black PN, CI 28440, Food Black 1, Brilliant Black BN.

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This information is for educational purposes only. For religious rulings, consult a qualified Islamic scholar or halal certification authority. E-code classifications may vary by source, manufacturing process, and school of thought.