Is E410 halal?

What is E410?

Locust bean gum, also called carob bean gum, is the ground inner part (endosperm) of carob tree seeds. The seed coats are removed by acid treatment or roasting, the germ is separated, and the endosperm is milled into a powder. Purer grades are dissolved and re-precipitated with alcohol.

Why it's marked “Generally halal”

The gum is a plant product made from carob seeds by peeling, separating and grinding. No animal material is involved. Only the purified “clarified” grade uses alcohol, and it is removed in drying, so the additive is generally regarded as halal.

How to check the label

No special check is needed. It may be listed as E410, locust bean gum or carob bean gum. It is not the same as carob powder, which is made from the pods.

Where you'll find it

• ice cream
• sauces
• dairy desserts
• bakery products
• meat products

Good to know

• EFSA re-evaluated locust bean gum in 2017 and concluded there was no need for a numerical ADI.
• EFSA noted that infants on special medical foods may be more sensitive to the gut effects of locust bean gum and advised monitoring under medical supervision.

Similar additives

• E412 Guar gum Generally halal
• E414 Gum arabic (acacia gum) Generally halal
• E440 Pectin Generally halal
• E466 Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) Generally halal
• E100 Curcumin Generally halal
• E153 Vegetable carbon Generally halal

See all 89 E-numbers in the halal checker

This list describes where additives usually come from. It isn't a religious ruling, and manufacturers can change their sources. Last reviewed: 14 October 2026.

Sources

1. EFSA re-evaluation of locust bean gum E410 (2017)
2. EU specifications for food additives, Regulation (EU) No 231/2012

Frequently asked questions