Kolik asit

Detailed information

What it is & how it is made

An emulsifier and stabiliser from the bile acid group. Its name comes from the Greek 'chole' (bile); it is typically obtained from animal (bovine or porcine) bile. Its source is therefore animal.

Where it is used

Used as an emulsifier that holds fat and water together; most often in powdered infant formula, ham and pork products, and in some supplement or pharmaceutical formulations, to improve the absorption of fat-soluble substances.

Health note

It is approved by regulatory bodies at ordinary food levels; there is no specific restriction in the EU.

Halal assessment

Its source is animal bile and, because it can frequently also be obtained from PORCINE bile, it carries a serious halal risk; it is not suitable unless it comes from an animal slaughtered according to Islamic rules and is certified. Its status has been kept as doubtful in this site's classification, but given the animal and porcine possibility it is strongly advised not to consume it without the manufacturer's halal certificate (note in particular that it appears in ham and pork products).