E420 — Sorbitol
Sweetener, humectant and texturiser
Also known as: Sorbitol · Glucitol
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
Plant-derived sugar alcohol - halal. Not intoxicating despite being a 'sugar alcohol'.
What to do with this product
Follow these steps in order — most products resolve at step 1 or 2
Safe to consume
E420 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
E420 is permissible. Focus your label check on the other E-codes in this product — some may have different statuses.
Scan the full label →About E420
Sugar alcohols 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 E420 made from?
- glucose reduction (from corn, wheat or potatoes - plant)
Found in products
⚠️ Product formulations change. Always verify by checking the current ingredient list on the packaging.
Foods that commonly contain E420
Food Category Guide
E420 is common in chewing gum — see the full halal guide →
Always check the ingredient label on the specific product - manufacturers may change formulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is E420 (Sorbitol) halal?
E420 (Sorbitol) 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 E420 used for?
E420 is used as a sweetener, humectant and texturiser in food products.
What foods contain E420?
E420 (Sorbitol) is commonly found in: sugar-free sweets, chewing gum, diabetic food, dried fruit, baked goods, toothpaste.
What is E420 made from?
E420 can be derived from the following sources: glucose reduction (from corn, wheat or potatoes - plant).
What are the other names for E420?
E420 may appear on food labels as: Sorbitol, Glucitol.
thickeners, gelling agents, phosphates, humectants, emulsifiers — 69 E-codes: 30 Halal, 0 Haraam, 39 Mushbooh
Related E-Codes in thickeners, gelling agents, phosphates, humectants, emulsifiers
Show 9 more thickeners, gelling agents, phosphates, humectants, emulsifiers E-codes
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.