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Doubtful — depends on source
E631 (Disodium inosinate) is a flavour enhancer that is commonly derived from fish or meat, though it can also be microbial — so it is treated as doubtful (mushbooh) unless the source is known.
Disodium inosinate is a flavour enhancer, usually used together with MSG (E621) to boost savoury taste in snacks and instant foods. It can be produced from fish (such as sardines), from meat, or by microbial fermentation.
Obtained from meat or fish tissue, or produced by microbial fermentation. The label rarely states which route was used.
E631 is treated as doubtful because its source varies. If it is microbial or from halal fish, it is permissible; if it is from non-halal meat, it is not. Because the source is almost never stated on the label — and it very commonly appears in snacks and instant noodles alongside E621 and E627 — the honest default is to verify. Note that fish-derived versions also matter to anyone avoiding fish.
It may be found in — this does not mean every product below contains it.
Disodium inosinateE631Flavour enhancer (E631)INS number: 631
In Singapore, verify the finished product on the MUIS HalalSG register. A certified product will have had its E631 source assessed; for an uncertified product listing E631, treat it as doubtful and contact the manufacturer.
Check MUIS HalalSGSources: FAO/WHO, EFSA, MUIS · Last reviewed: July 2026 · This guidance is not certification.
It is doubtful (mushbooh). It can be from fish, meat or microbial fermentation. If it may be from non-halal meat, it is best avoided unless the product is certified or the source is confirmed.
It can be derived from meat, which could include pork, but it may also be from fish or microbial sources. Because the label rarely says, verify with the manufacturer or look for certification.
It is very common in savoury snacks, instant noodles, seasonings and stock cubes, usually alongside MSG (E621).
Check the finished product on the MUIS HalalSG register, or ask the manufacturer whether the E631 is microbial, fish- or meat-derived.
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.