Why we do not use carmine (E120)

Carmine (E120) is the only animal-based colorant: it is a red food coloring made from scale insects. The scale insects are boiled and the red pigment is extracted from their bodies. Pretty disgusting, right? Unfortunately, many consumers are unaware of this ingredient in food and consume it unknowingly. (see source 1 below) 

Whether carmine is halal is assessed differently by the four Islamic schools of law. 

According to the Hanafi, Shafi'i, and Hanbali schools of law, the consumption of carmine (E120) is considered frowned upon. The Maliki school of law, on the other hand, classifies carmine (E120) as halal. (see source 2 below) 

Because the consumption of carmine is considered critical according to the majority opinion, we made a conscious decision from the outset not to use carmine in any of our Miralina sweets! 

With Miralina, we want to offer sweets that Muslims can consume without hesitation or doubt.  

With our sweets, we have proven that treats taste great and look fantastic even without carmine. 🍬 😍 

By the way: If you would like to learn more about halal nutrition, we recommend the book "Halal Lexikon" by Dilara Faslak: https://amzn.eu/d/4Cexqs2