Is E120 Halal?
E120 (carmine, listed as CI 75470 on cosmetics) is a red colour made from crushed cochineal insects. Many halal certifiers do not accept it.
Maliki — their opinion: insects with no flowing blood may be eaten, so this colour is allowed.
Hanafi, Shafi, Jafari, Hanbali — their opinion: insects other than locusts are not food, so it should be avoided; some Shafi, Jafari and Hanbali scholars accept it as a tiny colouring.
Follow your own scholar.
Guidance for Muslims
E120 is not permissible for Muslims. This additive may be derived from pork or other non-halal animal sources. Look for products with halal certification.
Common Products Containing E120
This additive is commonly found in bread, baked goods, margarine, ice cream, chocolate, and processed foods. Always check the label or scan with HalalCheck.