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E-number database

E626–E635 ribonucleotide flavour enhancers

Guanylates, inosinates, and mixed 5'-ribonucleotides are often made from yeast or bacterial fermentation today, but meat- and fish-extract routes still exist. Treat unspecified lots as source-dependent.

E-number database

  1. E626 INS 626 E626–E629 (Guanylates) Source-dependent Halal if verified Guanylic acid (E626) and its sodium, potassium, and calcium salts (E627–E629) are one guanylate family. undisclosedHalal if verified
  2. E630 INS 630 E630–E633 (Inosinates) Source-dependent Halal if verified Inosinic acid (E630) and its sodium, potassium, and calcium salts (E631–E633) are one inosinate family. microbialHalal fishHalal animalHalal if verified undisclosedHalal if verified
  3. E634 INS 634 E634 / E635 (Mixed 5'-ribonucleotides) Source-dependent Halal if verified E635 (disodium ribonucleotides) is made by fermentation or from meat or fish. A vegetarian or Halal mark settles it; the code alone does not. microbialHalal fishHalal animalHalal if verified undisclosedHalal if verified

How they differ

Ribonucleotides boost savoury flavour, usually alongside MSG. Guanylates (E626–E629) and inosinates (E630–E633) are the two families, and E634/E635 are their mixed salts; E635 is the one you see most, often as “flavour enhancer (E635)” on crisps, instant noodles and stock cubes.

Today most food-grade ribonucleotides are made by fermentation or from yeast extract. Inosinate was historically extracted from meat and fish, and those routes still exist. Fish-derived lots are Halal; meat-derived lots follow the animal and its slaughter. Because the label never says which route, an unmarked E627, E631 or E635 is Halal if verified.

On the label

  • “Disodium guanylate”, “disodium inosinate” and “disodium 5'-ribonucleotides” are E627, E631 and E635.
  • A vegetarian or vegan claim on the pack covers the source.
  • Stock cubes and instant noodles can also contain meat extracts; check those separately.

Frequently asked questions

Is E635 Halal?

Halal when made by fermentation or from fish, which is most modern supply. Without a vegetarian claim or Halal mark it is Halal if verified.

Is E631 made from pork?

It can be made from meat or fish, but most current supply is fermented. The label does not tell you, so look for a vegetarian or Halal mark.