Loading…
Doubtful — depends on source
E304 (Ascorbyl palmitate) is a fat-soluble form of vitamin C whose palmitic-acid part can be plant- or animal-derived — so it is treated as doubtful (mushbooh) unless the source is known.
Ascorbyl palmitate is a fat-soluble antioxidant made by joining vitamin C (ascorbic acid) to palmitic acid. It protects oils and fats in food from going rancid.
Ascorbic acid is esterified with palmitic acid. The palmitic acid can come from palm or other vegetable oils, or from animal fat — the label rarely says which.
E304's status depends on the source of its palmitic acid. When that comes from vegetable oil (commonly palm), it is halal; when it comes from animal fat, it is only permissible if the animal was halal. Because the source is usually unstated, it is treated as doubtful until confirmed. Most commercial ascorbyl palmitate uses vegetable-derived palmitic acid, but this should be verified rather than assumed.
It may be found in — this does not mean every product below contains it.
Ascorbyl palmitateE304Antioxidant (E304)INS number: 304
In Singapore, verify the finished product on the MUIS HalalSG register. A certified product will have had the palmitic-acid source assessed; for an uncertified product, contact the manufacturer.
Check MUIS HalalSGSources: EFSA, FAO/WHO, MUIS · Last reviewed: July 2026 · This guidance is not certification.
It is source-dependent. If the palmitic acid is from vegetable oil it is halal; if from animal fat it is permissible only if the animal was halal. Since the source is usually unstated, treat it as doubtful and verify.
It can be — many commercial versions use plant-derived palmitic acid. Look for a 'suitable for vegetarians' claim or halal certification to be sure.
'Ascorbyl palmitate' or 'E304'.
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.