Microbial Rennet (Fermentation-Produced Chymosin)
Also known as: Chymosin
A lab-grown alternative to animal rennet used in most modern cheese; halal.
Why?
Rather than extracting rennet from a calf's stomach, most commercial cheesemakers today use chymosin produced by genetically engineered bacteria, yeast, or fungi in a fermentation tank. Because no animal slaughter or animal tissue is involved, this microbial/fermentation-produced chymosin is considered halal.
Good to know
Look for 'microbial enzymes,' 'vegetarian rennet,' or 'non-animal rennet' on cheese labels. Compare with the Rennet and Pepsin entries in this glossary, which cover the animal-derived versions.
References
- General consensus of major halal certification bodies (e.g. IFANCA, JAKIM, HFA)
Last reviewed: 2026-08-30
This is informational guidance only, not a certified halal determination. Always consult an official halal certification body for certainty.