E420 is sorbitol, a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener, humectant, and bulking agent in sugar-free confectionery and baked goods. SANHA and JAKIM Handbook 2010 both classify E420 as halal. MUIS marks E420 as syubhah, noting it is produced from glucose by hydrogenation or electrolytic reduction. On the classification of SANHA and JAKIM, E420 is halal.

Food-safety note

Permitted as a sweetener, humectant, and bulking agent in Australia and New Zealand under the Food Standards Code (Schedule 15). A sugar alcohol with about half the kilojoules of sugar; large amounts can have a laxative effect. (Source: FSANZ; Food Standards Code Schedule 15.)

Common questions

Is E420 halal?

Sorbitol (E420) is classified halal. MUIS classifies it as doubtful; SANHA and JAKIM Handbook 2010 classify it as halal.

What is E420 made from?

Sorbitol (E420) is derived from plant sources. It is commonly found in Sugar-free chewing gum, diabetic foods, toothpaste, and mouthwash.

Found in

Sugar-free chewing gumdiabetic foodstoothpastemouthwashsugar-free candies