Are Marshmallows Halal?

The short answer

Marshmallows are made with gelatin, and in the United States that gelatin usually comes from pigs. So most marshmallows are not halal. Halal versions do exist, so the answer comes down to the brand.

Why aren't most marshmallows halal?

A marshmallow gets its soft, fluffy texture from gelatin. Gelatin is a protein made from animal skin and bones. In the United States, the cheapest and most common source is pigs, and the great majority of scholars say pork is haram. Standard brands, such as Jet-Puffed, Campfire and most store brands, use this kind of gelatin.

Which marshmallows are halal?

• Marshmallows made with certified beef gelatin, such as Ziyad. These are halal, because they use beef gelatin from cattle slaughtered the zabiha way, and the source has been checked.
• Vegan marshmallows without gelatin, such as Dandies. These are set with carrageenan, which comes from seaweed, or with tapioca, instead of gelatin. So they are halal by their ingredients.

How can you check a bag of marshmallows?

If the label just says "gelatin" with no source named, assume it probably comes from pork. Look for a halal symbol, or for a "vegan" or "gelatin-free" label.

Common questions

Are marshmallows halal?

Most are not, because they use gelatin, which usually comes from pigs in the United States. Marshmallows made with certified beef gelatin, and vegan marshmallows, are the halal choices.

Which marshmallow brands are halal?

Brands that use certified beef gelatin, such as Ziyad, and vegan brands without gelatin, such as Dandies.

Are vegan marshmallows halal?

Yes, by their ingredients. They use no gelatin and are set with carrageenan or tapioca instead.

Are foods with marshmallows, such as s'mores or Rice Krispies Treats, halal?

Only if the marshmallows in them are halal. Many of these products use standard marshmallows with pork gelatin, so check the label or make them at home with halal marshmallows.