E171 is titanium dioxide, a mineral pigment giving an opaque white colour to confectionery, icing, and coatings. SANHA, JAKIM Handbook 2010, and MUIS all classify E171 as halal. MUIS describes it as a white colouring prepared from the naturally occurring mineral ilmenite. E171 is halal.

Food-safety note

Permitted as a food colour in Australia and New Zealand under the Food Standards Code (Schedule 15). The EU banned E171 as a food additive in 2022 after EFSA could not rule out genotoxicity; FSANZ reviewed the same evidence and concluded there is no demonstrated safety concern at the levels used in food, so it remains permitted in Australia — a clear case of regulatory difference rather than an established danger. (Source: FSANZ; Food Standards Code Schedule 15.)

Common questions

Is E171 halal?

Titanium Dioxide (E171) is classified halal. SANHA, JAKIM Handbook 2010, and MUIS classify it as halal.

What is E171 made from?

Titanium Dioxide (E171) is a mineral. It is commonly found in Confectionery, coated chewing gum, white sauces, and sunscreens.

Found in

Confectionerycoated chewing gumwhite saucessunscreenstoothpastecapsule coatings