E406

A plant-based gelling agent from seaweed, a common halal alternative to gelatin.

Why?

Agar-agar is a gelling agent extracted from red algae (seaweed). It sets firmer than gelatin and is entirely plant-based, making it a popular halal (and vegetarian/vegan) substitute for gelatin in desserts and confectionery.

References

• General consensus of major halal certification bodies (e.g. IFANCA, JAKIM, HFA)

Last reviewed: 2026-09-08

This is informational guidance only, not a certified halal determination. Always consult an official halal certification body for certainty.