← Ingredient & E-number explorer

Typical source

Castor oil + glycerol (plant or animal)

Plain-language explanation

E476, or Polyglycerol polyricinoleate (PGPR), is an emulsifier commonly used in chocolate production to improve its flow and reduce the need for added cocoa butter. It is primarily synthesized from castor oil, which is derived from the castor bean plant, and polyglycerol, which usually comes from plant-based fats. Because its standard commercial source is entirely plant-based, major halal certification bodies like JAKIM, MUI, MUIS, ESMA, and HFA generally consider it halal. However, since the chemical process can theoretically use animal-derived fats or glycerin, its halal status ultimately depends on the source materials used by the manufacturer. To be certain it meets halal requirements, Muslim consumers should look for a reliable halal certification logo on the product packaging.