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E-number E542 · Minerals
Bone phosphate
Doubtful
- Typical source
- Animal bones
- Plain-language explanation
- E542, or bone phosphate, is a mineral salt derived from animal bones, often used as an anti-caking agent in powdered foods. Its halal status depends entirely on the source of the bones; it is considered halal only if the bones are from a halal-certified animal, such as cattle slaughtered according to Islamic law. Major certification bodies like JAKIM, MUI, and MUIS classify it as haram if the source is unknown or from non-halal animals like pork. Therefore, Muslims should look for products with E542 that are specifically certified halal.