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Typical source

Fatty acids (plant or animal)

Plain-language explanation

Polysorbate 20 is a synthetic ingredient made from sorbitol and a fatty acid, often derived from coconut or palm oil, but it can also use animal fats. Its halal status depends entirely on the source of the fatty acid; if it comes from plant sources, it is considered halal. If the fatty acid is from a non-halal animal source, it is not permissible. Major certification bodies like JAKIM and MUI require verification of the source to confirm its halal status.