Is Kroger, extra peach pie filling, peach Halal?

The Ingredient Breakdown

To understand why this product is Halal, we need to look at the specific components used to create the texture and flavor. As a food scientist, I look for hidden animal-derived enzymes or alcohol-based flavorings, neither of which are present here.

The base consists of Sliced peaches and water, creating the fruit suspension. The sweetness comes from sugar, which is universally Halal. For thickening, Modified corn starch is used. This is a plant-derived ingredient (from corn) and serves as an excellent gelling agent without using gelatin (which is often animal-derived).

For acidity and shelf stability, Citric acid and Erythorbic acid are added. Citric acid is derived from citrus fruits or fermented sugars, and Erythorbic acid is a synthetic equivalent of Vitamin C used to prevent the peaches from browning. Both are Halal. Finally, the vibrant color comes from Yellow 5 and Red 40. These are synthetic food dyes approved by the FDA and are chemically synthesized, not derived from animals, making them permissible.

Nutritional Value

While Halal status is the primary focus, the nutritional profile is equally important for a balanced diet. This pie filling is primarily a source of carbohydrates due to the combination of fruit fructose and added sugar. It is low in fat and protein, which is typical for fruit fillings.

Because the sugar content is significant, it should be consumed in moderation, especially for those monitoring their glycemic index. However, it provides a convenient way to incorporate fruit into desserts. If you are strictly counting calories, remember that the modified corn starch adds bulk without many calories, but the sugar contributes the majority of the energy content.