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Typical source

Cochineal insects

Plain-language explanation

E120, also known as carmine or cochineal, is a red food coloring made from the dried bodies of the female cochineal insect. Since it is derived from an insect, its halal status is a point of debate among Islamic scholars. Major certification bodies like JAKIM, MUI, and MUIS generally consider it haram (forbidden) because consuming insects is not permissible, while others may permit it based on differing interpretations. Therefore, you should check the product's halal certification to be certain.