E211 — Sodium Benzoate
Preservative - sodium salt of benzoic acid
Also known as: Sodium Benzoate
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.
School of Thought Breakdown
Hanafi
Permitted
Maliki
Permitted
Shafi'i
Permitted
Hanbali
Permitted
Synthetic chemical - halal. Part of the 'Southampton Six' when combined with artificial colors. When combined with vitamin C (ascorbic acid), benzene can form - a health concern, not a halal one.
What to do with this product
Follow these steps in order — most products resolve at step 1 or 2
Safe to consume
E211 is permissible across all major schools of Islamic thought. No further verification is needed for this specific additive.
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.
You're all clear for this additive
E211 is permissible. Focus your label check on the other E-codes in this product — some may have different statuses.
Scan the full label →About E211
Chemical preservative 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 E211 made from?
- synthetic
Foods that commonly contain E211
Food Category Guide
E211 is common in fruit juices — see the full halal guide →
Always check the ingredient label on the specific product - manufacturers may change formulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is E211 (Sodium Benzoate) halal?
E211 (Sodium Benzoate) 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 E211 used for?
E211 is used as a preservative - sodium salt of benzoic acid in food products.
What foods contain E211?
E211 (Sodium Benzoate) is commonly found in: fizzy drinks, fruit juices, pickles, condiments, soy sauce.
What is E211 made from?
E211 can be derived from the following sources: synthetic.
What are the other names for E211?
E211 may appear on food labels as: Sodium Benzoate.
preservatives — 48 E-codes: 40 Halal, 0 Haraam, 8 Mushbooh
Related E-Codes in preservatives
Free weekly guide
Know before you eat — wherever you are
Join Muslims worldwide who get our weekly halal food guide — ingredient alerts, certified brand updates, and products your family can buy without second-guessing.
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.
