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Commonly non-halal — check for a certified version
Traditional mirin is a fermented sweet rice wine containing alcohol, so it is haram. Alcohol-free 'mirin-style' seasonings are a separate, permissible product.
Mirin is a sweet Japanese condiment used in sauces, glazes and simmered dishes (teriyaki, sukiyaki, nimono). Genuine mirin (hon-mirin) is a fermented rice wine of roughly 14% alcohol; cheaper 'aji-mirin' also usually contains alcohol.
Traditional hon-mirin is made by fermenting glutinous rice with koji and shochu, producing an alcoholic sweet liquid. Non-alcoholic 'mirin-style' seasoning is formulated from rice syrup, vinegar and flavourings without the fermentation alcohol.
Intoxicating alcohol (khamr) is prohibited, and traditional mirin is an alcoholic rice wine, so it is haram. Because Japanese and Korean dishes such as teriyaki, sukiyaki and many glazes commonly use mirin (and sake/cooking wine), these dishes need checking. Alcohol-free 'mirin-style' seasonings are a different product and can be halal — verify the label and certification.
It may be found in — this does not mean every product below contains it.
MirinAji-mirinSweet rice wineRice wineCooking wineIn Singapore, MUIS HalalSG-certified Japanese/Korean restaurants and products do not use alcoholic mirin, sake or cooking wine. For uncertified eateries, ask specifically about mirin/cooking wine in sauces and glazes.
Check MUIS HalalSGSources: MUIS, FAO/WHO · Last reviewed: July 2026 · This guidance is not certification.
No. Traditional mirin is a fermented sweet rice wine containing alcohol, which is haram. Look for alcohol-free 'mirin-style' seasoning or halal-certified products instead.
'Mirin-style' or 'mirin-fu' seasonings made without fermentation alcohol are a different product and can be halal — check the label and certification to confirm no added alcohol.
Often, yes — teriyaki, sukiyaki and many Japanese glazes use mirin or sake. Verify with the manufacturer or restaurant, or choose halal-certified options.
Alcohol-free mirin-style seasoning, or a mix of water/rice vinegar with a little sugar. Halal-certified Japanese sauces avoid alcoholic mirin.
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.