Quick Answer
A red dye extracted from crushed insects.
Detailed Explanation
What is it?
A bright red food coloring used in candies, juices, yogurts, and cosmetics. It is extracted from the dried, crushed bodies of the female cochineal insect.
Why it may be haram
Insects (other than locusts) are widely considered haram to consume in Islamic jurisprudence.
Fiqh considerations
The majority of scholars (Hanafi, Shafi'i, Hanbali) prohibit the consumption of insects, making E120 haram. A minority view (some Maliki/Maliki-leaning scholars) permits it based on it being a "bloodless" creature or undergoing transformation, but the safest and most widely accepted stance is to avoid it.
Certification Context
Most major global Halal certification bodies (like JAKIM or IFANCA) will not certify products containing Carmine. If you see a product with E120 and a Halal logo, verify the issuing body, as it likely follows the minority Maliki opinion.
Practical advice
Always check labels for "Carmine," "Cochineal Extract," or "E120," especially in strawberry/cherry flavored yogurts, red candies (like Skittles in the UK), and red lipsticks.
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