E-code guide
E123Amaranth
HalalColorant
E123
Amaranth
Synthetic red color
JAKIM Handbook 2010 classifies as doubtful; SANHA and MUIS classify as halal.
Based on 3 cited authorities. Confidence: medium.
What authorities say
3 authorities on record1says Doubtful2say Halal
Why this verdict
E123 is amaranth, a synthetic azo dye giving a dark-red colour, used in some beverages, fish roe, and dessert mixes — despite the name it is a synthetic dye, not the amaranth plant. SANHA and MUIS both classify E123 as halal, describing it as a synthetic purplish-red colouring with no animal source. JAKIM Handbook 2010 lists it as Mushbooh only in liquid form, where the carrier solvent must also be halal — a product-level matter. As a synthetic dye, E123 is halal.
Food-safety note
Permitted as a food colour in Australia and New Zealand under the Food Standards Code (Schedule 15), subject to maximum permitted levels. The United States ended its listing in 1977, but EFSA and JECFA have since assessed it and both concluded it is not carcinogenic — FSANZ notes the US position reflects older legislation rather than current science. (Source: FSANZ; Food Standards Code Schedule 15.)
Common questions
Is E123 halal?
Amaranth (E123) is classified halal. JAKIM Handbook 2010 classifies it as doubtful; SANHA and MUIS classify it as halal.
What is E123 made from?
Amaranth (E123) is produced synthetically.