E401 — Sodium Alginate
Thickener, gelling agent and stabiliser
Also known as: Sodium Alginate
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
Seaweed-derived - halal.
What to do with this product
Follow these steps in order — most products resolve at step 1 or 2
Safe to consume
E401 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
E401 is permissible. Focus your label check on the other E-codes in this product — some may have different statuses.
Scan the full label →About E401
Emulsifiers and stabilizers - alginates 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 E401 made from?
- brown seaweed (plant/algae)
Foods that commonly contain E401
Food Category Guide
E401 is common in ice cream — see the full halal guide →
Always check the ingredient label on the specific product - manufacturers may change formulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is E401 (Sodium Alginate) halal?
E401 (Sodium Alginate) 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 E401 used for?
E401 is used as a thickener, gelling agent and stabiliser in food products.
What foods contain E401?
E401 (Sodium Alginate) is commonly found in: ice cream, yogurt, cream cheese, structured foods (molecular gastronomy).
What is E401 made from?
E401 can be derived from the following sources: brown seaweed (plant/algae).
What are the other names for E401?
E401 may appear on food labels as: Sodium Alginate.
thickeners, gelling agents, phosphates, humectants, emulsifiers — 69 E-codes: 30 Halal, 0 Haraam, 39 Mushbooh
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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.