Sorbitol is a widely used sugar alcohol in the food industry that serves as a sweetener. Muslim consumers who are looking for alternative sweeteners often ask whether or not Sorbitol is Halal.
The short answer to this question is YES. In this article, we will explore the truth about whether sorbitol is halal, taking a closer look at its properties, uses, health benefits, and halal certification process.
Let’s get started!
What is Sorbitol?
Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol (also known as polyol) that occurs naturally in many fruits and berries, including apricots, apples, avocados, strawberries, blackberries, etc. It is also commercially manufactured from glucose, which is derived from corn syrup or other plant sources.
Sorbitol contains approximately one-third fewer calories than regular sugar and is about 60 percent as sweet. Such properties make it a suitable sweetener in the food industry. It is also used in pharmaceuticals and personal care products.
It has a variety of uses in the food industry, such as a sugar substitute in sugar-free or reduced-sugar products and as a bulking agent. It is also used in many personal care products, including face masks, hair sprays, cleansers, peels, creams, deodorants, mouthwashes, and toothpastes.
Is Sorbitol Halal?
Since Sorbitol is an alcohol, it is understandable that one may think it is not halal. However, the classification of alcohol in Islam refers to the one that is intoxicating such as ethyl alcohol, which is found in alcoholic beverages and has intoxicating effects.
Sorbitol, on the other hand, is a sugar alcohol, which means it does not have the same intoxicating effects as ethyl alcohol. So, sorbitol is generally halal as long as it is manufactured from halal sources, and the manufacturing process does not involve haram (forbidden) ingredients or practices.
For example, the Islamic Food and Nutrition Council of America (IFANCA) certifies sorbitol that is manufactured from halal sources and uses halal manufacturing practices as halal.
Moreover, Countries such as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Qatar, which are known for strictly adhering to halal dietary practices, have approved the use of sweeteners like sorbitol in their food products. So, you can consider it halal. If you are still concerned, consider going for the varieties of sorbitol that are halal-certified.
Reasons Why Sorbitol is Halal
So, here are the reasons why Sorbitol is halal, in a nutshell:
- Sorbitol does not contain any ethanol or ethyl alcohol, which is the type of intoxicating alcohol that is prohibited in Islam.
- Sorbitol has no intoxicating effects and does not have any adverse effects on the body, according to Islamic scholars.
- It is produced from natural sources, primarily plants, and does not contain any animal enzymes, making it permissible under Islamic dietary laws.
- The halal certification process ensures that sorbitol and other food products meet the dietary requirements of Muslims and comply with Islamic law.
- Islamic countries like the KSA and Qatar have approved the use of sorbitol in food products as it is considered halal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we can say that sorbitol is considered halal and permissible for consumption by Muslims. Its natural origin, absence of ethanol or ethyl alcohol, and health benefits make it a widely accepted sweetener in the Islamic community. If you are still sceptical, choose only the halal-certified varieties.
So, go ahead and enjoy it guilt-free!
