What is E420?
E420 is Sorbitol, a sweetener. Plant-derived.
Also written as: INS 420, E-420, E 420. INS is the international numbering system used outside Europe, including on labels in Asia, Australia and the Middle East.
What to do
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Frequently asked questions
Is E420 halal?
E420 (Sorbitol) is halal. Plant-derived.
What is E420 made from?
Made from glucose.
What is E420 used for?
E420 is used as a sweetener, typically in diet drinks, sugar-free sweets, chewing gum and yoghurts.
What should I do if a product contains E420?
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Related E-numbers
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. How we decide · Suggest a correction