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Doubtful — depends on source
E260 (Acetic acid) is the acid in vinegar; it is halal when synthetic or from halal vinegar, but because it can be made from wine vinegar it is treated by some as doubtful — many scholars accept fully-converted vinegar as halal.
Acetic acid is the sour component of vinegar, used as an acidity regulator and preservative. It can be produced synthetically or by fermentation, and the vinegar it comes from can be of various sources — including, in some cases, wine.
Made synthetically or by fermenting alcohol to vinegar. Where it is derived from wine vinegar, the alcohol has been converted to acetic acid.
Synthetic acetic acid and acetic acid from halal vinegar (e.g. from dates, apples, malt) are halal. The question arises only with wine-derived vinegar: many scholars hold that once wine has fully converted into vinegar it becomes halal, while stricter views prefer to avoid it. Because the source is usually unstated, it is presented as doubtful for those who follow the cautious view.
It may be found in — this does not mean every product below contains it.
Acetic acidE260Ethanoic acidAcidity regulator (E260)INS number: 260
In Singapore, verify the finished product on the MUIS HalalSG register or contact the manufacturer if you need to confirm the vinegar source.
Check MUIS HalalSGSources: EFSA, FAO/WHO, MUIS · Last reviewed: July 2026 · This guidance is not certification.
Synthetic acetic acid and acetic acid from halal vinegar are halal. Many scholars also accept vinegar fully converted from wine; stricter views avoid it. As the source is usually unstated, it is presented as doubtful for the cautious.
Vinegar from halal sources (dates, apples, malt) is halal. Most scholars accept vinegar that has fully converted from wine; some prefer to avoid it.
'Acetic acid', 'E260' or 'Ethanoic acid'.
Humble Halal methodology: we classify additives by their common origin, not by any specific product. A generally-halal ingredient does not make a finished product halal-certified. This page is general guidance, not certification or religious/legal advice — always verify the complete product. Last reviewed July 2026.