Tocopherols, vitamin E (E306 to E309): Halal or Haram?
Halal
Vitamin E in its various forms, used to stop fats going rancid. It is either extracted from plant oils, usually soya, or made synthetically. Also called tocopherol-rich extract (E306) or mixed tocopherols.
E306 Tocopherol-rich extract
Natural vitamin E, used to stop fats going rancid.
Why it is Halal. This is the natural mixture rather than a single isolated form, extracted from soya or sunflower oil.
Where you meet it. Oils, margarine, snacks, baby food.
E307 Alpha-tocopherol
A single form of vitamin E, isolated or synthesised.
Why it is Halal. Both routes are non-animal: plant oil or laboratory synthesis.
Where you meet it. Oils, spreads, cereals, supplements.
E308 Gamma-tocopherol
Another vitamin E form used as an antioxidant.
Why it is Halal. Plant-derived or synthetic, as with the rest of the tocopherols.
Where you meet it. Oils, snacks, processed food.
E309 Delta-tocopherol
The last of the tocopherol series.
Why it is Halal. Same plant or synthetic origin.
Where you meet it. Oils, fried snacks, spreads.
What to do in the shop
Nothing special to do for E306 itself. Read the rest of the list: a product is only as clear as its least clear ingredient.
Questions people ask
Is E306 Halal?
E306 (Tocopherol-rich extract): Halal. This is the natural mixture rather than a single isolated form, extracted from soya or sunflower oil.
Is E307 Halal?
E307 (Alpha-tocopherol): Halal. Both routes are non-animal: plant oil or laboratory synthesis.
Is E308 Halal?
E308 (Gamma-tocopherol): Halal. Plant-derived or synthetic, as with the rest of the tocopherols.
Is E309 Halal?
E309 (Delta-tocopherol): Halal. Same plant or synthetic origin.
Related additives
Check a product, not just a number
An additive's status describes the additive in general. What matters is the whole ingredient list on the packet in your hand.