Is E950 halal?

What is E950?

Acesulfame K, or acesulfame potassium, is a synthetic sweetener about 200 times sweeter than sugar. It is made entirely by chemical synthesis. The body does not break it down for energy, so it adds no calories, and it is often blended with other sweeteners.

Why it's marked “Generally halal”

It is produced by chemical synthesis from industrial chemicals, with no animal material, insect or alcohol-based ingredient. The finished sweetener is a single pure substance, so there is no known halal catch for the sweetener itself.

How to check the label

No special check is needed for acesulfame K. In sweetened products, judge any other ingredients, such as gelatin or flavourings, on their own.

Where you'll find it

• diet soft drinks
• table-top sweeteners
• sugar-free sweets
• flavoured yoghurts
• chewing gum

Good to know

• In 2025 EFSA raised the acceptable daily intake from 9 to 15 mg/kg body weight per day and found that exposure was generally below it.
• EU labels on foods containing sweeteners must state “with sweetener(s)” next to the name of the food.

Similar additives

• E951 Aspartame Generally halal
• E955 Sucralose Generally halal
• E102 Tartrazine Generally halal
• E110 Sunset Yellow FCF Generally halal
• E124 Ponceau 4R Generally halal
• E129 Allura Red AC 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 acesulfame K E 950 (2025)
2. EU labelling rules, Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011, Annex III

Frequently asked questions